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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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of brown sugar

First recorded in 1695–1705


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

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

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 4, 2026

Soft pieces of bread are drenched in a buttery mixture of Dijon mustard, brown sugar and Worcestershire before being baked into a golden, shareable centerpiece.

From Salon ● Jun. 22, 2026

Usually, I whisk whatever sweetener I have on hand directly into the custard: honey, maple syrup, brown sugar, white sugar, sometimes a combination.

From Salon ● May 25, 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

Mom made ham with her not-so-secret ingredient of brown sugar, and all the traditional sides are spread across the table.

From "Piecing Me Together" by Renée Watson

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