cornstarch

noun

corn·​starch ˈkȯrn-ˌstärch 

: starch made from corn and used in foods as a thickening agent, in making corn syrup and sugars, and in the manufacture of adhesives and sizes for paper and textiles

Examples of cornstarch in a Sentence

I used some cornstarch to thicken the gravy.

Recent Examples on the Web

Cut it into cubes and coat it in a light dusting of starch, like cornstarch or even flour, and stir-fry it. —Bon Appétit, Bon Appetit Magazine, 11 June 2025

Bacteria can easily digest the cornstarch, creating a distinct smell and defeating the purpose of refreshing your hair with dry shampoo.1 How To Use Dry Shampoo Safely Dry shampoo is not meant to replace shampooing but to freshen hair between washes. —Sherri Gordon, Health, 3 Feb. 2025

Whisk in the cornstarch, salt, and ½ teaspoon of the cardamom. —Ellen Gray, Saveur, 15 May 2025

Strawberry Pie 3 tablespoons cornstarch 3 tablespoons strawberry gelatin 1 cup sugar 1 cup water 1 pint fresh strawberries, washed and capped 1 baked pie crust 1 cup heavy cream, whipped OR 1 small carton Cool Whip Combine cornstarch, gelatin, sugar and water in saucepan. —Kelly Brant, Arkansas Online, 13 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for cornstarch

• arch
• march
• starch

Kids Definition

cornstarch

noun

corn·​starch -ˌstärch 

: a fine starch made from corn and used in foods for thickening, in making corn syrup and sugars, and in making adhesives and sizes for papers and textiles