brownie
UK: ˈbraʊni | US: ˈbraʊni
n. a small, square piece of rich chocolate cake, often with nuts
n. (folklore) a benevolent elf or sprite said to do household chores secretly
n. (scouting) a junior member of the Girl Scouts or Girl Guides, typically aged 7–10
The word "brownie" originates from the adjective "brown," referring to the color of the chocolate cake or the mythical creature’s earthy appearance. The suffix "-ie" is a diminutive, often used to denote smallness or endearment (e.g., "doggie," "bookie"). In folklore, "brownies" were depicted as small, helpful beings, likely named for their brown clothing or association with hearths. The dessert sense emerged in the late 19th century, named for its brown color. The scouting term was adopted in the early 20th century, symbolizing youthful energy and camaraderie.
She baked a batch of fudgy brownies for the school bake sale.
According to legend, a brownie might mend your shoes if you leave out milk.
My daughter joined the Brownies and loves earning badges.
The brownie crumbled into rich, chocolatey pieces.
Folktales describe brownies as shy creatures who vanish if thanked directly.