Sherbet or Sherbert: Which Spelling Is Correct?

“Sherbet” is the correct spelling; “sherbert” is a common pronunciation-based mistake.

Many people feel unsure when choosing between sherbet and sherbert. You may have heard both words spoken aloud, especially when talking about frozen desserts. Because they sound almost the same, it is easy to think both spellings are correct. That is why so many users search for sherbet or sherbert online.

This confusion happens mainly because spoken English does not always match written English. Over time, people added an extra R while saying the word, and that habit slowly spread. However, in standard English writing, dictionaries, menus, and formal texts, only sherbet is accepted.

In this article, you’ll learn the clear difference between sherbet and sherbert, where the word comes from, why the mistake is so common, and how to always use the correct spelling with confidence.

Table of Contents

Sherbet or Sherbert – Quick Answer

Sherbet → ✅ Correct spelling
Sherbert → ❌ Incorrect spelling

Simple Examples

I ordered lemon sherbet for dessert.
This mango sherbet tastes refreshing.

“Sherbert” should be avoided in writing.

The Origin of Sherbet or Sherbert

The word sherbet comes from Turkish “şerbet”, which means a sweet drink. It entered English through Arabic and Persian languages, keeping its original spelling style.

There was never an extra R in the original word. The spelling sherbert appeared later because of pronunciation habits, not grammar rules. Over time, people began saying it with an extra R, and the mistake became common in speech.

So, the spelling confusion exists due to spoken usage, not because both forms are correct.

British English vs American English Spelling

There is no difference between British and American English for this word.

Form	British English	American English
Sherbet	Correct	Correct
Sherbert	Incorrect	Incorrect

Both varieties of English accept only sherbet.

Which Spelling Should You Use?

You should always use sherbet.

Use sherbet when:

Writing menus
Posting recipes
Writing articles or blogs
Using formal or informal English

Avoid sherbert

It may sound familiar, but it is not standard English spelling.

Why Do People Say “Sherbert”?

This happens because of sound patterns in English.

People often add an extra R to make pronunciation easier. Similar speech-based errors happen with other words too. While sherbert is commonly spoken, it remains nonstandard in writing.

Think of it this way:

Pronunciation can change
Spelling rules do not

Common Mistakes with Sherbet or Sherbert

Mistake 1: Writing how it sounds

❌ Strawberry sherbert
✅ Strawberry sherbet

Mistake 2: Assuming both spellings are accepted

❌ Sherbet or sherbert both work
✅ Only sherbet is correct

Mistake 3: Using incorrect spelling on menus

❌ Orange sherbert
✅ Orange sherbet

Sherbet or Sherbert in Everyday Examples

Emails

Please include lemon sherbet in the menu.
We served raspberry sherbet at the event.

News

The restaurant introduced a new sherbet flavor.
Dairy-free sherbet sales increased this summer.

Social Media

Mango sherbet is perfect for hot days.
Homemade sherbet recipe coming soon.

Formal Writing

The dessert course featured citrus sherbet.
Sherbet is lighter than ice cream.

Sherbet or Sherbert – Google Trends & Usage Data

Search trends show:

Sherbet is widely used in recipes, food blogs, and dictionaries
Sherbert appears mainly due to spelling confusion
Grammar tools and editors flag sherbert as incorrect

Professional and SEO-focused content always uses sherbet.

Comparison Table: Sherbet vs Sherbert

Aspect	Sherbet	Sherbert
Correct spelling	Yes	No
Dictionary accepted	Yes	No
Used in menus	Yes	No
Formal writing	Yes	No
Based on origin	Yes	No

FAQs: Sherbet or Sherbert

1. Is sherbert ever correct?

No. It is a spelling error.

2. Why do many people say sherbert?

Because pronunciation habits added an extra R over time.

3. Is sherbet dairy-free?

Often yes, but it depends on the recipe.

4. Do dictionaries accept sherbert?

No. Major dictionaries list only sherbet.

5. Is this mistake common?

Yes, especially in spoken English.

6. Is sherbet used worldwide?

Yes, the spelling is standard globally.

7. Should I correct someone who says sherbert?

In writing, yes. In speech, it is usually understood.

Conclusion

The difference between sherbet and sherbert is clear once you understand the origin and rules. Sherbet is the correct spelling, rooted in history and supported by dictionaries. Sherbert, while commonly spoken, is simply a spelling mistake that became popular through pronunciation.

If you want your writing to look accurate and professional, always choose sherbet. This applies to menus, recipes, blogs, and formal documents. Remember, English spelling often follows history, not sound.

Once you lock this rule in your mind, you will never hesitate again when choosing between sherbet and sherbert.