cornstarch

American  

[kawrn-stahrch] / ˈkɔrnˌstɑrtʃ /

noun

1. a starch or a starchy flour made from corn and used for thickening gravies and sauces, making puddings, etc.

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cornstarch British  

/ ˈkɔːnˌstɑːtʃ /

noun

1. Also called (in Britain and certain other countries): cornflour.  a fine starchy maize flour, used esp for thickening sauces

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Etymology

Origin of cornstarch

An Americanism dating back to 1850–55; corn ¹ + starch

Compare meaning

How does cornstarch compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• cornmeal vs. cornstarch

Example Sentences

Other ingredients include salt, monosodium glutamate, cornstarch and beta carotene for color.

From The Wall Street Journal

I was making one of my go-to tofus, whisking together the cornstarch and oil that, when roasted at high heat, creates a golden, crunchy crust.

From Seattle Times

In a small bowl, whisk together the water and the cornstarch to form a slurry, then whisk it into the marinade.

From Washington Post

Dredge in cornstarch, coating both sides, and shake off excess.

From Salon

In a small bowl, stir together the cornstarch and 1 tablespoon water until combined and pourable.

From Washington Times