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

This nontraditional version — mostly egg, cornstarch and potato that’s been half grated and half cut into fine matchsticks — is crisp on the outside and tender-chewy on the inside. —The New York Times News Service Syndicate, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Mar. 2026

Be sure to use fine corn flour (as opposed to coarse cornmeal or cornstarch) to ensure the proper velvety texture. —Jen Lin-Liu, Saveur, 11 Mar. 2026

Recalled because a mixing error resulted in small cornstarch clumps in the product, resulting in a choking hazard. —Josh Kelly, Oklahoman, 27 Feb. 2026

With the mixer running, add the cornstarch and kosher salt and mix well, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. —Monti Carlo, AJC.com, 27 Feb. 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