cornstarch

noun

corn·​starch ˈkȯrn-ˌstärch How to pronounce cornstarch (audio)
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Mix the cornstarch with the cold water in a small bowl to make a smooth slurry. — ABC News, 24 Aug. 2026 His wife welcomes me into their open-air kitchen for coffee and tamal de maicena — homemade milk tarts made with cornstarch, which are unbelievably fresh and delicious. — Jennifer Leigh Parker, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026 Whisk together cornstarch, 2 tablespoons water, and vinegar in a small bowl until smooth. — Marianne Williams, Southern Living, 10 Aug. 2026 Mix a small amount of cornstarch into the soil to help loosen it slightly and retain moisture more evenly. — Farima Ferguson, The Spruce, 10 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cornstarch

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cornstarch was in 1853

Rhymes for cornstarch

See All Rhymes for cornstarch

Browse Nearby Words

cornstalk weed
cornstarch
corn stick
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cornstarch.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cornstarch. Accessed 27 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

cornstarch

noun
corn·​starch -ˌstärch How to pronounce cornstarch (audio)
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on cornstarch

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cornstarch

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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