from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Caramel \Car"a*mel\, n. [F. caramel (cf. Sp. caramelo), LL.
canna mellis, cannamella, canamella, calamellus mellitus,
sugar cane, from or confused with L. canna reed + mel,
mellis, honey. See {Cane}.]
1. (Chem.) Burnt sugar; a brown or black porous substance
obtained by heating sugar. It is soluble in water, and is
used for coloring spirits, gravies, etc.
[1913 Webster]
2. A kind of confectionery, usually a small cube or square of
tenacious paste, or candy, of varying composition and
flavor.
[1913 Webster]