starchier; starchiest
1
: containing, consisting of, or resembling starch
starchy foods
2
: formal, stiff
a starchy lawyer
starchily adverb
starchiness noun

Examples of starchy in a Sentence

a starchy and demanding teacher
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For decades, celebrity chefs have been urging us to reserve the starchy water that remains after cooking pasta to help gently thicken and bring the pasta sauce together. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Jan. 2025 Rice water is a starchy liquid that results from soaking the grain in water or cooking it in water, Khetarpal explains. Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 7 Jan. 2025 Her fabulously named Delysia Lafosse treats life like a Mae West comedy, juggling three hunky lovers, deluxe showbiz dreams, and a starchy social secretary (Frances McDormand) with screwball frenzy. Matthew Jacobs, Vulture, 6 Dec. 2024 Fruits and Vegetables No fruits or vegetables are off-limits on the Mediterranean diet, and all can be eaten liberally. Liberally: All starchy vegetables (potatoes, corn, and root vegetables) All non-starchy vegetables (i.e., artichokes, broccoli, cucumbers, etc.) All fruits 4. Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 21 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for starchy 

Word History

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of starchy was in 1633

Dictionary Entries Near starchy

Cite this Entry

“Starchy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/starchy. Accessed 7 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

starchy

adjective
starchier; starchiest
1
: containing, consisting of, or resembling starch
starchy foods
2
: consisting of or marked by formality or stiffness
starchiness noun

Medical Definition

starchy

adjective
starchier; starchiest
: containing, consisting of, or resembling starch
starchy foods

More from Merriam-Webster on starchy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!