Correct spelling, explanation: the term doughnut has a straightforward etymology that reflects its composition. The word is a combination of dough, referring to the mixture of flour, water, and other ingredients used in baking, and nut, possibly alluding to the small, nut-like shape of some early versions of these pastries. The shortened form donut is also related in terms of meaning but represents a more informal and simplified spelling. In summary, while both spellings have the same etymological roots, doughnut is the traditional form, and donut is a simplified and informal variation that gained prominence over time.

Definition of doughnut:
1. Noun, a small, circular cake, fried in hot fat, either with a hole in the middle or filled with jam
After carefully kneading the dough and allowing it to rise, the baker shaped it into a perfect ring and deep-fried it to create a delicious and fluffy doughnut.
The aroma of freshly baked doughnuts filled the air as customers eagerly lined up at the bakery to savor the sweet, glazed treats.
2. Noun, a soft, round object with a hole in the middle
The kids giggled with delight as they took turns stacking colorful plastic doughnuts on the toy kitchen counter, pretending to serve a tasty treat.
In the crisp morning air, the hot air balloon drifted gracefully over the landscape, resembling a giant, floating doughnut in the sky.

Collocations with doughnut:
Some most commonly used collocations include:
1. Cinnamon sugar doughnut: a doughnut coated in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.
I couldn’t resist the warm and comforting aroma of the freshly baked cinnamon sugar doughnut, a perfect treat on a chilly morning.
2. Powdered sugar doughnut: a doughnut covered in a layer of powdered sugar.
The simple pleasure of a powdered sugar doughnut paired with a cup of tea made for a delightful afternoon snack.
3. Cream-filled doughnut: a doughnut with a creamy filling, often vanilla or chocolate-flavored.
The bakery’s specialty was the cream-filled doughnut, oozing with vanilla custard that made each bite heavenly.
4. Old-fashioned doughnut: a traditional, plain doughnut with no frills.
Sometimes, the charm of an old-fashioned doughnut with its simple flavor and nostalgic appeal is all you need.

Correct spelling, explanation: the choice between donut and doughnut is largely a matter of personal preference and context. Both spellings are widely accepted, and you can use the one that you find more appealing or that fits the tone of your writing. If you’re writing in a formal context or following a style guide that prefers traditional spellings, you might opt for doughnut. On the other hand, if you’re writing informally or in a more casual setting, donut is perfectly acceptable and commonly used, especially in American English.