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

Stir together egg yolks, brown sugar, cornstarch, cocoa, and espresso granules (if using) in a medium bowl until well combined. —Katherine Polcari, Southern Living, 27 Nov. 2025

The primary reason gravy raises blood sugar is due to the use of white flour or cornstarch, which serves as a thickener in most traditional gravy recipes. —Sohaib Imtiaz, Verywell Health, 25 Nov. 2025

Containers of bulk sugar, flour, yeast and cornstarch were not labeled. —Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado, Sacbee.com, 21 Nov. 2025

Sprinkle with the cornstarch and stir to coat. —CBS News, 21 Nov. 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