marshmallow
UK: ˈmɑːʃmæləʊ | US: ˈmɑːrʃmeloʊ
n. a soft, sweet, white or pink confection made from sugar, egg whites, and gelatin, often toasted or used in desserts
n. (historical) a medicinal substance derived from the root of the marshmallow plant
The word "marshmallow" combines "marsh" (Old English mersc, meaning wetland) and "mallow" (Old English mealwe, from Latin malva). Originally, it referred to the marshmallow plant (Althaea officinalis), which grows in wetlands. The plant's root was historically used to make a medicinal sap, later replaced by gelatin in the modern confection. The sweet's name preserves the plant's habitat and botanical identity, even as its ingredients evolved.
She roasted a marshmallow over the campfire until it turned golden brown.
The recipe calls for marshmallows to be melted into the hot chocolate.
Ancient Egyptians used marshmallow root to soothe sore throats.
A bag of colorful marshmallows spilled onto the kitchen counter.
The dessert was topped with whipped cream and mini marshmallows.