How Do You Spell CARAMEL?

Pronunciation: [kˈaɹəmˌɛl] (IPA)

The spelling of "caramel" has been a topic of debate among English speakers for years. The word is pronounced /ˈkærəmɛl/ with stress on the second syllable. However, some people spell it with an "a" as "carmel" or "carmal," while others spell it with two "a's" as "carameal" or "carmele." The correct spelling, according to most dictionaries, is "caramel." The word comes from the Spanish word "caramelo" and has been used in English since the early 18th century.

Meaning and Definition
Top Common Misspellings
Other Common Misspellings
Etymology
Similar spelling words
Plural
Basic Check Advanced Check

CARAMEL Meaning and Definition

  1. Caramel is a noun that refers to a sweet, sticky, and chewy substance made by heating sugar or syrup until it turns brown. It is commonly used as a flavoring or topping in various desserts, confectioneries, and culinary preparations. Caramel is produced by heating and melting sugar molecules, which undergo a chemical transformation known as caramelization.

    The color of caramel typically ranges from light golden brown to dark brown, depending on the intensity of the heating process. It possesses a rich, smooth consistency and a distinct buttery, toasty, and slightly bitter taste. The flavor can vary slightly depending on the method of caramelization, the type of sugar used, and any additional ingredients like butter or cream.

    Caramel is a versatile ingredient used in an array of sweet dishes such as caramel apples, caramel custards, caramel popcorn, caramel sauce, caramel candies, and caramel frosting. It is also employed in the creation of beverages like caramel lattes and caramel milkshakes. In addition to its culinary applications, caramel is often used for decorative purposes, as it can be transformed into elegant swirls, drips, or patterns when cooled.

    The term "caramel" can also be used adjectivally to describe food or drinks that contain or taste like caramel. It has become a widely popular flavor and is enjoyed by many due to its distinct sweetness and unique character.

  2. Burnt sugar; a black porous substance obtained by heating sugar to about 400°.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for CARAMEL *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for CARAMEL

Etymology of CARAMEL

The word "caramel" originates from the late 17th century. It comes from the French word "caramel" which is derived from the Spanish word "caramelo" and ultimately from the Portuguese word "caramelo". The Portuguese term possibly has its roots in the Late Latin word "calamellus", meaning "little reed or straw". The term "caramel" originally referred to a specific type of sugar syrup, particularly one used for coloring or flavoring food and beverages. Over time, it came to be associated with the sweet treat made by heating sugar until it melts and turns golden or brown.

Similar spelling words for CARAMEL

Plural form of CARAMEL is CARAMELS

Infographic

Correct spelling for caramel
Add the infographic to your website: