starch

[stɑːtʃ]

starch Definition

a white, odorless, tasteless powder that is used as a thickening agent in foods and is also used in laundry to stiffen fabric.

Using starch: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "starch" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The recipe calls for two tablespoons of corn starch.

  • Example

    The shirt needs to be starched before ironing.

  • Example

    The laundry detergent contains a small amount of starch to help remove stains.

starch Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for starch

Phrases with starch

  • to stiffen and press clothes

    Example

    She spent the afternoon starching and ironing her husband's shirts.

  • starched collar

    a stiff collar made stiff with starch

    Example

    In the early 20th century, men often wore starched collars with their suits.

  • a solution of starch in water, used as an indicator in analytical chemistry

    Example

    The starch solution turned blue when it reacted with the iodine.

Origins of starch

from Old English 'stercan', meaning 'to stiffen'

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Summary: starch in Brief

The term 'starch' [stɑːtʃ] refers to a white, odorless, tasteless powder used as a thickening agent in foods and to stiffen fabric. It is commonly used in recipes and laundry, as in 'The recipe calls for two tablespoons of corn starch.' 'Starch' extends into phrases like 'starch and iron,' denoting the process of stiffening and pressing clothes.

How do native speakers use this expression?