popcorn

1 of 2

noun

pop·​corn ˈpäp-ˌkȯrn 

: corn (Zea mays var. everta synonym Z. mays praecox) having kernels that upon exposure to heat burst open to form a white starchy mass

also : the kernels especially after popping

popcorn

2 of 2

adjective

1

: being or consisting of bite-size pieces of food that are typically breaded or battered and fried

popcorn chicken/shrimp

… I am easily swayed by the popcorn cauliflower ($9). Lightly battered and fried crisp, the cauliflower is perfectly tender and not at all heavy.

—Kathy Jollimore

2

: having widespread appeal but usually offering little artistic merit or intellectual stimulation

popcorn movies

popcorn entertainment

Examples of popcorn in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Who doesn’t have childhood memories of arguing about Boardwalk and Park Place until the popcorn bowl got knocked over during an evening of wholesome family entertainment? —Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 11 Sep. 2025

Charge for the popcorn, charge for the soda. —Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 9 Sep. 2025

Adjective

Who knew the secrets to an angelic glow were popcorn and clay face masks? —Olivia Evans, Women's Health, 31 Jan. 2023

From the robust showing of popcorn movies to the recognition of some of the most respected stars of the past four decades to the embrace of new faces, this year’s nominations offer something for everyone. —Clayton Davis, Variety, 26 Jan. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1823, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1965, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing popcorn

• popcorn chicken/shrimp

Rhymes for popcorn

• adorn
• airborne
• blackthorn
• broomcorn
• buckhorn
• buckthorn
• careworn
• firstborn
• foodborne
• forborne
• forewarn
• forlorn

Kids Definition

popcorn

noun

pop·​corn

ˈpäp-ˌkȯ(ə)rn

: corn with kernels that burst open to form a white starchy mass when heated

also : the popped kernels