starchy

UK: ˈstɑːtʃi | US: ˈstɑːrtʃi

Definition

  1. adj. containing or resembling starch

  2. adj. (of behavior) stiff, formal, or humorless

Structure
starch <stiffening agent>y <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "starchy" combines "starch," derived from Old English stearc (meaning "stiff" or "rigid"), with the suffix "-y," which forms adjectives. Starch, a substance used to stiffen fabrics, metaphorically extended to describe rigid or overly formal behavior. The term reflects the physical property of starch (making things stiff) applied to human demeanor.

Examples

  1. The starchy collar of his shirt felt uncomfortable.

  2. Her starchy manner made the meeting feel tense.

  3. Potatoes become less starchy when soaked in water.

  4. He avoided starchy foods to reduce his carbohydrate intake.

  5. The professor’s starchy reply discouraged further questions.