Definition

Describing food that is tough and requires a lot of chewing to break down before swallowing.

Example

The caramel was so chewy that it took a long time to finish.

Conversation

I just tried that new candy shop downtown.

Oh really? How was it?

The gummies were super chewy, but I loved them!

Nice! I enjoy chewy candies too; they last longer.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Chewy → It is formed from "chew" (from Old English *ceowan*, meaning to bite or munch) and the suffix "-y" (meaning characterized by). The word "chewy" describes something that is characterized by the need to chew, often referring to food that requires significant biting or grinding.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old English word for 'bite' — when something is 'chewy', it means it requires a lot of biting to eat.

Visually Confused Words