starches
|starch/es|
🇺🇸
/stɑrtʃɪz/
🇬🇧
/stɑːtʃɪz/
(starch)
thickening agent
Etymology
'starch' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'stercan,' where 'stercan' meant 'to stiffen.'
'stercan' transformed into the Middle English word 'starchen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'starch.'
Initially, it meant 'to stiffen or harden,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a carbohydrate used in cooking.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a carbohydrate found in large amounts in staple foods like potatoes, rice, and corn, used as a thickening agent in cooking.
Starches are often used to thicken soups and sauces.
Synonyms
Noun 2
plural form of 'starch', referring to multiple types or instances of starch.
Different starches have varying thickening properties.
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/02/09 05:19