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.
In a large bowl, mix maple syrup, brown sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, cornstarch, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and salt. Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 4 July 2025 Stir in blueberries, peaches, cornstarch and lemon juice. Erin Hooker, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 June 2025 Add flour, cornstarch, and salt; beat on low until just combined, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 10 June 2025 For oily stains, like makeup or oil, sprinkle with cornstarch or baking soda to absorb the oil before brushing it off and applying a stain remover. Christina Pérez, Vogue, 31 May 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cornstarch.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cornstarch. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

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

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