Definition & Meaning of "jawbreaker"

What is "jawbreaker"?

Jawbreakers, also known as gobstoppers, are a type of hard candy that is designed to be slowly dissolved in the mouth. These round, multi-colored candies are made by layering sugar syrup over a small center of sugar and adding color and flavor. The candy is then heated and cooled several times to create multiple layers of different colors and flavors, giving the candy its distinctive appearance. Jawbreakers are often quite large, and can take several hours to dissolve completely, making them a popular candy for children who enjoy the challenge of seeing how long they can keep one in their mouth. They are also popular with people who enjoy a long-lasting, sweet treat. Jawbreakers come in a variety of sizes and flavors, and are often sold in bulk or in small packages.