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

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

Combine 1 cup of flour with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, then mix in about 1 cup of water. —Cody Godwin, USA Today, 24 Feb. 2026

How Mama Got That Rich, Velvety Texture While some recipes rely on a roux or cornstarch slurry for thickening, Mama knew the potatoes could do the heavy lifting. —Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 22 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