Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of smut fungus that specifically infects maize (Indian corn), causing a disease characterized by the formation of large, distorted, and often dark-colored galls on the ears, kernels, tassels, or stalks of the plant.

Usage

• Noun:
  • The farmer was concerned about the cornsmut spreading through his crop.
  • Cornsmut can significantly reduce the yield of an infected maize field.

Advanced Usage

• "Cornsmut infection": Refers to the condition or process of the fungus attacking the corn plant.
  • Researchers are studying ways to control cornsmut infection.
• In a culinary context: In some cuisines, particularly Mexican (where it is called ), the infected kernels are considered a delicacy.
  • The chef sourced fresh cornsmut to prepare the traditional dish.

Variants and Related Words

• Ustilago maydis: The scientific name for the fungus that causes cornsmut.
• Smut: A general term for various plant diseases caused by fungi of the order Ustilaginales, characterized by sooty spore masses.
• Huitlacoche: The Nahuatl-derived name for the edible form of the fungus, used especially in Mexican cooking.

Synonyms

• Maize smut
• Common smut of corn

Related Phrases

• To be infected with smut: Describes a plant that has the disease.
  • Several plants in the row appeared to be infected with smut.

Noun

1. a smut fungus attacking Indian corn