Oobleck

noun

Oo·​bleck ˈü-ˌblek How to pronounce Oobleck (audio)
: a mixture of corn starch and water that behaves like a liquid when at rest and like a solid when pressure is applied
A quick tap on the surface of Oobleck will make it feel hard, because it forces the cornstarch particles together. But dip your hand slowly into the mix, and see what happens—your fingers slide in as easily as through water.Katherine Harmon

Examples of Oobleck in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Make oobleck The Umatilla Public Library, 412 Hatfield Dr., will have an Oobleck Making activity for area kids, ages 7 to 12, at 2 p.m. July 3. Roger Simmons, Orlando Sentinel, 27 June 2024 The Umatilla Public Library, 412 Hatfield Dr., will have an Oobleck Making activity for area kids, ages 7 to 12, at 2 p.m. July 3. Roger Simmons, Orlando Sentinel, 27 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

after oobleck, a viscous green substance in the children's book Bartholomew and the Oobleck (1949) by Dr. Seuss (Theodor Seuss geisel)

First Known Use

1973, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Oobleck was in 1973

Dictionary Entries Near Oobleck

Cite this Entry

“Oobleck.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Oobleck. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

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