starchy

[ stahr-chee ]

adjective

, starch·i·er, starch·i·est.

1. of, relating to, or of the nature of starch.
2. containing starch.
3. stiffened with starch.
4. stiff and formal, as in manner.

starchy

/ ˈstɑːtʃɪ /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or containing starch

   starchy foods

2. extremely formal, stiff, or conventional

   a starchy manner

3. stiffened with starch

Derived Forms

• ˈstarchiness, noun
• ˈstarchily, adverb

Other Words From

• starchi·ly adverb
• starchi·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of starchy¹

First recorded in 1795–1805; starch + -y ¹

Example Sentences

It begins with grinding cassava's starchy roots on shredding boards studded with fish teeth, chips of rock or, most often today, a rough sheet of tin.

From Salon

She loomed into the room in a starchy nightdress, and her sparse hair was tied up in rags.

From Literature

This is true of many freshly cooked starchy foods, particularly those low in fibre or made from finely milled flours — such as white bread or potatoes.

From Salon

To make dal feels like an alchemical feat, watching the pebbly lentils turn creamy, starchy and golden with turmeric.

From Seattle Times

“We understand that the Committee is considering changes to food groups within US dietary patterns. One of those discussions involves the interchangeability of starchy vegetables and grains,” Quarles said.

From Salon

Related Words

• stuffy