popcorn

American  

[pop-kawrn] / ˈpɒpˌkɔrn /

noun

1. any of several varieties of corn whose kernels burst open and puff out when subjected to dry heat.

2. popped corn.

3. peanut.

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popcorn British  

/ ˈpɒpˌkɔːn /

noun

1. a variety of maize having hard pointed kernels that puff up when heated

2. the puffed edible kernels of this plant

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Etymology

Origin of popcorn

1810–20, short for popped corn. See pop ¹, -ed ², corn ¹

Example Sentences

On opening weekend, fans bought out all of its merchandise, including a Yoshi-themed popcorn bucket and a “Mario” blanket, even though Cinépolis had ordered additional products.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026

"Me and my cousins and my mom made popcorn and watched the launch. You guys are inspiring us all down here on Earth," their comment read.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

He said he always had an entrepreneurial flair, selling bubblegum and popcorn from his Samsonite briefcase at Jamaica High School.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 18, 2026

The package also includes comfortable box seating and light snacks like popcorn and macarons, plus the welcome perk of skipping the long entry lines.

From Salon • Mar. 7, 2026

And as he looks around the motel room, his eyes watering from yawning so big, he says, “Are we having popcorn for breakfast?”

From "The Sea in Winter" by Christine Day