saltwater taffy

noun

1. a taffy sometimes made with seawater but more generally made with salted fresh water.

Word History and Origins

Origin of saltwater taffy¹

An Americanism dating back to 1890–95

Example Sentences

Only instead of Oompa Loompas, it’s white-coated hash makers stirring cauldrons with comically large paddles, squeezing rosin in presses and pulling gooey strips of freshly made concentrate like saltwater taffy.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The weekend was oceanic cliffs and Gilded Age mansions and a kaleidoscopic assortment of saltwater taffy.

Read more on Salon

The Blaine-to-Birch-Bay corridor feels like a low-key version of the Washington and Oregon coast — sandy and rocky seaside beaches, tide pools, sunsets, saltwater taffy and all the fun — without the horrific traffic and crowds.

Read more on Seattle Times

But on Monday she sounded strained, pulled tighter than saltwater taffy.

Read more on Washington Post

“Jersey’s got saltwater taffy and hoagies. Perfect for the Jersey Shore.”

Read more on Literature