Sweetener Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sweetener

[ˈswiː.tə.nər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

food

A substance, especially sugar, that is used to make food and drinks sweet.

Synonyms

sugar substitute, sweetening agent.

Examples of usage

  • This coffee needs a sweetener.
  • I prefer to use natural sweeteners in my baking.
Context #2 | Noun

music industry

A track or album released to promote a musician, typically before the full album is released.

Synonyms

promotional track, teaser.

Examples of usage

  • The singer dropped a sweetener to build anticipation for her upcoming album.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Some sweeteners like saccharin were discovered by accident in 1879, offering insights into artificial sweetening.
  • Unlike sugar, some sweeteners can have zero calories, making them popular for diet-conscious consumers.

Health

  • Certain low-calorie sweeteners can help people manage their blood sugar levels, making them useful for those with diabetes.
  • The safety of various sweeteners is debated, with some studies indicating potential effects on gut health.

Culinary Uses

  • Sweeteners are used not just in desserts but also in sauces, marinades, and beverages to enhance flavor.
  • Natural sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup are often seen as healthier alternatives to processed sugars.

Pop Culture

  • Sweeteners feature prominently in dietary trends like ketogenic diets, where people avoid sugar.
  • Brands of sweeteners have even become household names, often seen side by side with sugar in kitchens around the world.

Origin of 'sweetener'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'sweetener' comes from the base word 'sweet,' which has roots in Old English, describing something pleasing to the taste.
  • The suffix '-ener' is used to indicate a person or thing that produces a specific result, leading to the meaning of something that makes things sweet.

The word 'sweetener' originated in the 19th century, derived from the verb 'sweeten' with the suffix '-er', indicating a person or thing that does something. The concept of sweetening food and drinks has been a part of human history for centuries, with various natural and artificial sweeteners used over time.


See also: sweet, sweetening, sweetheart, sweetness, sweets.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,012, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.