starchier; starchiest
1
: containing, consisting of, or resembling starch
starchy foods
2
: formal, stiff
a starchy lawyer
starchily adverb
starchiness noun

Examples of starchy in a Sentence

a starchy and demanding teacher
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.
Amylase helps humans digest complex carbohydrates, starting from the moment a starchy food enters the mouth. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 18 Oct. 2024 The Summary New research offers insight into the evolutionary history of amylase genes, which are key to our ability to eat and digest starchy food. Aria Bendix, NBC News, 17 Oct. 2024 These duplications opened the door for the wide genetic variations that still exist today and help us digest starchy foods. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 17 Oct. 2024 In addition to providing a unique, vibrant color to many foods, ube purple yams can replace other starchy vegetables in soup, stew, or stir-fry recipes. Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 22 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for starchy 

Word History

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of starchy was in 1633

Dictionary Entries Near starchy

Cite this Entry

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

Kids Definition

starchy

adjective
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
starchier; starchiest
: containing, consisting of, or resembling starch
starchy foods

More from Merriam-Webster on starchy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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