Definition

Noun: - A variety of maize (corn) characterized by kernels that have a very hard, glassy outer layer (the pericarp) surrounding a small, soft, starchy endosperm. This hardness makes it resistant to pests and suitable for grinding into cornmeal.

Usage

• Flint corn is primarily used for making cornmeal, hominy, and as animal feed. It is less common for fresh eating due to its hard texture.
• It is often distinguished from other types like dent corn or sweet corn by its kernel structure.

Examples

• The farmer grew flint corn specifically to mill into coarse cornmeal for polenta.
• Flint corn kernels are so hard they can spark if struck against steel, which is how it got its name.
• Many traditional Native American dishes were made using flint corn.

Advanced Usage

• Genetic Preservation: Flint corn is valued in heirloom and heritage seed saving for its genetic diversity and adaptability.
• Decorative Use: Its kernels come in a range of colors (blue, red, yellow, white), making it popular for autumn decorations and crafts, often referred to as "Indian corn" in this context.

Variants and Related Words

• Flint maize: A synonymous term.
• Zea mays indurata: The botanical classification for flint corn.
• Indian corn: Often used colloquially to describe multi-colored flint corn used decoratively. (Note: This is a related term but not an exact synonym, as it refers to a specific visual type).

Synonyms

• Hard corn
• Flint maize

Antonyms

• Sweet corn (Zea mays saccharata): A variety grown for its high sugar content and tender kernels, eaten fresh.
• Dent corn (Zea mays indentata): A variety with a soft starch that causes a dent in the top of the kernel, primarily used for industrial purposes and livestock feed.

Related Phrases/Idioms

• : An informal simile describing something very tough or resilient. (e.g., "The old bread was as hard as flint corn.")

Noun

1. corn having kernels with a hard outer layer enclosing the soft endosperm