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

Dissolve cornstarch in water and bring it to a boil until a gel forms. —Michelle Mastro, Martha Stewart, 17 Apr. 2026

Recipe Tips For Cowboy Butter Meatballs Adding cornstarch and sugar to the sauce gives it that glossy sheen and ensures the sauce doesn’t break. —Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 12 Apr. 2026

Coffee-Kahlúa Cream Sauce In a medium saucepan stir together sugar and cornstarch. —Maddy Bendgen, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Apr. 2026

Repeat with the remaining mandarins, adding more cornstarch as needed. —Kelly McCarthy, ABC News, 2 Apr. 2026

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