Short answer: the correct spelling is "confectionery". It is the standard word for sweets and chocolate, and it is the form used in British and American English. "Confectionary" is a common misspelling. Some dictionaries also list it as a variant, but "confectionery" is the spelling to use.
Where the word comes from
Both spellings come from "confection", a sweet preparation. Wikipedia defines confectionery as the art of making confections, or sweet foods. The shared root is why the two spellings get mixed up, since they sound the same when spoken.
Common spellings people search for
| Spelling | What it is |
|---|---|
| confectionery | The standard spelling for sweets and chocolate |
| confectionary | A variant listed in some dictionaries, and a common misspelling |
| confection | The root word: a sweet preparation or delicacy |
| confectioner | A person who makes or sells sweets and confectionery |
How to remember it
The word is built from "confection" plus "-ery", the ending used for a category of goods, so it is spelled with "-ery" when you mean the sweets themselves. If you are writing about a shop, a range, or a category of sweets and chocolate, use "confectionery".
Where to read more
This article only covers the spelling question. For the full definition, the categories of sugar and chocolate confectionery, and the examples and UK terms, read our guide What Is Confectionery? Meaning and UK Terms.
Shop the range
Browse our chocolate and pick 'n' mix collections for sweets and chocolate from across the confectionery category.
Frequently asked questions
Is confectionary a word?
It is recognised as a variant spelling in some dictionaries, but "confectionery" is the standard form for sweets and chocolate, so it is the safer choice.
Confectionery or confectionary: which is correct?
"Confectionery" is the correct spelling for the category of sweets and chocolate.
What is confectionery?
Sweet food products made mainly from sugar. It covers sugar confectionery, such as boiled sweets and gummies, and chocolate confectionery, such as chocolate bars.
Source: Wikipedia, Confectionery.