Definition

1. Noun:
   • The fine, thread-like strands found on an ear of corn (maize): Cornsilk refers specifically to the long, silky, filamentous styles that protrude from the tip of a corn cob. These strands are part of the female flower of the corn plant and serve to catch pollen.

Usage

• Noun:
  • The recipe calls for fresh cornsilk to make a herbal tea.
  • Before boiling the corn, you should remove the outer husk and the cornsilk.

Advanced Usage

• Botanical Context: In botany, "cornsilk" is the common name for the stigma and style of the maize plant (). It is often used in traditional medicine.
  • Cornsilk has been studied for its potential diuretic properties.

Variants and Related Words

• Corn silk: This is a common alternative spelling, written as two separate words. The meaning is identical.
  • You can find dried corn silk in some health food stores.

Synonyms

• Maize silk: A less common synonym, using the term "maize" for corn.
• Stigma and style (of corn): The precise botanical terms for this structure.

Notes on Different Meanings

• The word "cornsilk" is almost exclusively used in this botanical/culinary sense. It is a compound noun formed from "corn" and "silk," describing its appearance. It does not commonly have other metaphorical meanings.

Noun

1. each of the long filamentous styles that grow as a silky tuft at the tip of an ear of Indian corn