Sugarplum Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฌ
sugarplum
[หsสษกษrplสm ]
Definition
sweet treat
A sugarplum is a type of candy that is often made from sugar, flavorings, and sometimes fruit or nuts. Traditionally, it is associated with Christmas and has a whimsical, festive connotation. Sugarplums are known for their sweet, delectable nature, making them a favorite during the holiday season.
Synonyms
candy, confection, sweet.
Examples of usage
- She placed a sugarplum in his stocking.
- The children danced with joy at the sight of the sugarplums.
- They made sugarplum candy as part of their holiday traditions.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural References
- The phrase 'sugarplum' appears in the famous poem 'A Visit from St. Nicholas' (commonly known as 'The Night Before Christmas'), where visions of sugarplums danced in children's heads.
- In the ballet 'The Nutcracker' by Tchaikovsky, the Sugar Plum Fairy is a magical character that symbolizes sweetness and the joyful spirit of the holiday season.
Culinary Traditions
- Historically, sugarplums were often made from sugar-coated nuts or boiled sugar candies, enjoyed as delicacies in festive celebrations.
- Today, the term 'sugarplum' can refer to various sweet treats, from chocolate-covered candies to flavored hard candies.
Literature
- In modern literature, the concept of sugarplums evokes imagery of magic and joy, often as a symbol of innocence and happiness.
- Various authors use sugarplums in holiday tales to appeal to nostalgia, capturing the excitement of childhood during celebrations.
Psychology
- The idea of sugarplums brings comfort to many, often associated with the joyous memories of festive seasons and family gatherings.
- Sweet treats like sugarplums are linked to positive emotions, as the brain releases dopamine when consuming sugary foods, creating a sense of pleasure.
Origin of 'sugarplum'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'sugarplum' dates back to the 17th century, originally referring to small confections made with sugar.
- The word combines 'sugar', the sweet substance, and 'plum', which at the time referred to any small sweet item, not just the fruit.
The term 'sugarplum' dates back to the early 18th century and is derived from the combination of two words: 'sugar' and 'plum.' While the original meaning referred to a small candy made of sugar, the use of 'plum' in this context does not necessarily refer to the fruit itself. Instead, it signifies a sweet treat. The phrase gained cultural significance through literature and popular phrases such as 'visions of sugarplums danced in their heads,' a line from the famous poem 'A Visit from St. Nicholas' by Clement Clarke Moore. This cultural reference solidified the association of sugarplums with the festive season, evoking imagery of childhood joy and holiday cheer.