donut

What is another word for donut? Here is its meaning, with related words and examples.

Noun — A ring or piece of sweet, deep-fried dough, often coated with sugar or icing.

We haven't recorded synonyms for donut yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.

How to use donut

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

glazed donut box of donuts donut shop jam-filled donut

It is an informal, everyday spelling rather than a formal one.

Etymology

Donut is an altered spelling of doughnut, formed from dough and nut, and is first recorded around 1900. It stayed rare until the 1950s, when it began to spread more widely, likely helped by the growth of the Dunkin' Donuts chain, founded in 1950.

Full origin of donut →

Frequently asked questions

Is donut the same as doughnut?

Yes, donut is simply an alternative spelling of doughnut, chiefly used in Canada, the US and Australia.

When did the spelling donut start being used?

It is recorded from around 1900, but it only became common after the 1950s.

Why did the spelling donut become popular?

Its spread is thought to be linked to the rise of the Dunkin' Donuts chain, which was founded in 1950.

Nearby words

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