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

Toss tofu with cornstarch mixture. —Bethany Thayer, Freep.com, 6 Dec. 2025

Just mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a few tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into your simmering soup for instant thickening power. —Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 3 Dec. 2025

In a large bowl, combine one-half cup sugar, cornstarch and cinnamon. —Kathryn Gregory, Louisville Courier Journal, 1 Dec. 2025

In separate bowl, stir together to combine flour, cornstarch and salt (a whisk is good for this). —Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 1 Dec. 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