Corn.

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

IPA: /kɔrn/

Phonetic: KORN

Definitions

• A cereal plant (Zea mays) that produces large grains set in rows on a cob, commonly grown for food and livestock feed.
• In British English, a general term for cereal crops such as wheat and barley.
• A hard, localized thickening of the skin, usually on the toes, caused by pressure or friction.
• Figuratively, something old-fashioned, sentimental, or overly simple in entertainment or literature.

Usage Examples

• "Farmers in the Midwest harvest vast fields of corn each year."
• "The movie was full of corny jokes and predictable moments."

Etymology

From Old English ‘corn’, meaning “grain, seed, cereal plant,” originally referring to all cereal crops before becoming specific to maize in American English.

Synonyms

• Maize
• Grain
• Cereal

Antonyms

• Non-grain foods
• Refined flour products

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• American English: /kɔrn/
• British English: /kɔːn/
• Australian English: /kɔːn/

Historical Usage

Corn was first domesticated in Mesoamerica over 9,000 years ago. It became a staple crop for indigenous peoples and was later introduced to Europe after Columbus’ voyages.

Cultural Nuances

In the United States, 'corn' refers specifically to maize, while in the UK, it can refer to any staple grain, such as wheat or barley. Corn-based products like cornbread and tortillas are integral to various cuisines worldwide.

More Information

Corn is used in a variety of ways, from food products such as popcorn, cornmeal, and syrup to industrial uses like biofuel production and biodegradable plastics.