candy
n. C / Un. sweet food made mostly of sugar. In British English, people usually call these sweets.
n. a confection made primarily of sugar or syrup, often combined with fruit, chocolate, or nuts.
The children bought some candy at the store.
The dentist warned the patient that eating too much sticky candy could damage their teeth over time.
Artisanal confectioners often use traditional copper kettles to ensure the candy reaches the precise temperature required for a smooth, glass-like finish.
From Venetan and Latin Candia, from Ancient Greek Χάνδαξ (Khándax) or Χάνδακας (Khándakas), from Arabic رَبْض الخَنْدَق (rabḍ al-ḵandaq) (in particular Arabic خَنْدَق (ḵandaq), borrowed from Middle Persian *handag (whence Classical Persian هندک (handak, “moat”))), name of the Cretan city of Heraklion under the Emirate of Crete.
From Portuguese Candea, from Tamil கண்டி (kaṇṭi), possibly further from Sinhalese, ultimately from Sanskrit खण्ड (khaṇḍa).
Uncountable when referring to the substance in general; countable when referring to specific types or individual pieces.
I bought many candiesI bought some candyIn American English, 'candy' is usually uncountable when referring to a collection of sweets; 'candies' is reserved for distinct varieties.
- 01
arm candy
An attractive, seemingly romantic companion who accompanies a person in public solely so that one or both of the individuals can gain attention, enhance social status, or create an impression of sexual appeal.
- 02
brain candy
A narrative, commentary, etc. which amuses and holds one's attention, but which lacks intellectual depth or importance.