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

Make batter: While oil heats, whisk together flour, cornmeal, cornstarch, baking powder, sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dry mustard in a large bowl. —Elizabeth Mervosh, Southern Living, 24 Jan. 2025

Another trick of the trade Torres swears by is the addition of powdered milk and a teaspoon of cornstarch. —Amber Love Bond, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025

Shake off excess egg, transfer the chicken to the cornstarch mixture, and turn to coat. —Robin Miller, The Arizona Republic, 5 Dec. 2024

Dredge one patty in the cornstarch mixture, then place in the egg mixture and turn to coat. —Lynn Derrick and Janelle Weaver, Saveur, 27 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined above

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