starchy

adjective

ˈstär-chē 

starchier; starchiest

1

: containing, consisting of, or resembling starch

starchy foods

2

: formal, stiff

a starchy lawyer

starchily

ˈstär-chə-lē 

adverb

starchiness

ˈstär-chē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms of starchy

• formal
• decorous
• nice
• stiff
• ceremonious
• proper
• correct

Examples of starchy in a Sentence

a starchy and demanding teacher

Recent Examples on the Web

One of the main differences between starchy and non-starchy vegetables is their calorie and carbohydrate content. —Lindsey Desoto, Health, 26 Nov. 2025

These types are very starchy and prone to becoming mushy. —Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 21 Nov. 2025

Carrots and sweet potatoes are both starchy and sweet root vegetables, but each offers a unique nutritional profile and potential health benefits. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 12 Nov. 2025

Dine-in meals ($50 per adult, $25 per child) include a choice of salad or soup, turkey with stuffing, gravy and cranberry relish, a choice of two starchy sides or vegetables and a choice of one dessert. —Bradley Hohulin, IndyStar, 12 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for starchy

• archie

Kids Definition

starchy

adjective

ˈstär-chē 

starchier; starchiest

1

: containing, consisting of, or resembling starch

starchy foods

2

: consisting of or marked by formality or stiffness

starchiness noun

Medical Definition

starchy

adjective

ˈstär-chē 

starchier; starchiest

: containing, consisting of, or resembling starch

starchy foods