Meaning & Definition of word "Popcorn"

Popcorn

/ˈpɒp.kɔːrn/

noun:

  • 1. A variety of corn whose kernels expand and puff up when heated, typically eaten as a snack.
    • Example: I made a big bowl of popcorn for movie night.
  • 2. A popular snack food made by popping the kernels of corn and typically flavored with butter, salt, or other seasonings.
    • Example: At the fair, we bought caramel popcorn from a vendor.
  • 3. A food item often associated with movie theaters and entertainment.
    • Example: She always buys popcorn when she goes to see a film at the cinema.
  • 4. Popped corn kernels that may come in various flavors or forms, often packaged for sale.
    • Example: The grocery store had an aisle dedicated to different types of flavored popcorn.
  • 5. The act of popping corn.
    • Example: He demonstrated how to make popcorn on the stovetop.

Etymology

The term 'popcorn' is a combination of 'pop' referring to the sound made when the corn is heated and 'corn', which refers to the grain itself.

Common Phrases and Expressions

popcorn kernel:

An unpopped or partially popped corn kernel.

popcorn machine:

A device used for popping corn, typically found in cinemas.

Related Words

maize:

A cereal plant from which popcorn is derived.

snack:

A small amount of food eaten between meals.

Slang Meanings of popcorn

Meaning: To be overly excited or enthusiastic.

Example Sentence: He was popping like popcorn during the concert.

Meaning: To be in a hurry or to rush around.

Example Sentence: I was popping around the house getting ready.