johnnycake

or john·ny cake

[ jon-ee-keyk ]

noun

, Northern U.S.

1. an unleavened cake or bread made of cornmeal and water or milk, usually cooked on a griddle.

Word History and Origins

Origin of johnnycake¹

An Americanism dating back to 1730–40; of uncertain origin; possibly by folk etymology from earlier jonakin

Example Sentences

At Kulture, Davis gives a rotating group of young Black chefs a place to iterate on classic dishes like oxtail ragout, fried fish fillets and johnnycakes.

From Seattle Times

“Here you go,” said one of them, reaching out a hand and offering him johnnycake.

From Literature

She turned back to the stove and flipped the johnnycakes.

From Literature

There are also shrimp that have been grilled with their heads and shells on, placed over johnnycakes and splashed with spiced piri-piri sauce.

From New York Times

That evening, those in attendance made quick work of the freshly fried walleye, hot johnnycakes, and a bowl of coleslaw we’d pulled together from pre-shredded cabbage and raisins.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• cake
• crepe
• waffle