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
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.
Stripe Classic Percale Duvet Set $248 $190 Brooklinen Who doesn’t love the crisp, starchy feel of percale? Jacorey Moon, Architectural Digest, 21 June 2025 That corn milk is a naturally sweet, starchy liquid perfect for adding flavor and texture to anything, including soups, salad dressings, corn puddings, and—of course—fresh creamed corn. Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 12 June 2025 Some call for an Alfredo-like sauce made with heavy cream, butter and Parmesan, while others rely on just olive oil, lemon juice, Parmesan and starchy pasta water. The New York Times News Service Syndicate, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 June 2025 Add the starchy water, grated cheese and peppercorns to the bowl of a food processor and pulse to combine until a smooth cream forms. 5. Francesca Giuliani Hoffman, CNN Money, 9 May 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Starchy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/starchy. Accessed 23 Jul. 2025.

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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!