brown sugar

American  

noun

1. unrefined or partially refined sugar that retains some molasses.

2. a commercial product consisting of white, refined sugar to which molasses has been added.

3. Slang. brownish-colored heroin manufactured illicitly in Mexico.

---

brown sugar British  

noun

1. sugar that is unrefined or only partially refined

---

Etymology

Origin of brown sugar

First recorded in 1695–1705

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

brown sugar

Starbucks said it doesn’t cost more to add classic syrup or chai to the revised drinks, but flavors like vanilla or brown sugar go for a standard 80 cents extra.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 4, 2026

Farmers grow passion fruit, pomegranates and tangerines, and islanders relish a fiery shochu liquor made with brown sugar.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 3, 2026

Then, following Samin Nosrat’s lead, I gave them time: an overnight dry brine of salt, brown sugar, paprika, and a little fennel powder, the surface quietly transforming while you sleep.

From Salon ● Apr. 10, 2026

The dry lake beds and bare mountains were cast in glow and shadow, the whole scene washed in cinnamon and brown sugar — earthy tones that felt almost edible.

From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 5, 2026

Ma gave Caroline some ginger tea, adding two large spoonfuls of brown sugar to the cup.

From "Krik? Krak!" by Edwidge Danticat