ENGLISH
REFERENCE

marshmallow

n. countable
B1 Intermediate US //ˈmɑɹʃˌmɛɫoʊ// UK //mˈɑːʃmɐlˌəʊ// marsh·mal·low

n. a soft, white, and very sweet food that feels like a sponge. People often cook them over a fire or put them in hot chocolate.

n. a soft, aerated confection typically made from sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin. Originally derived from the root of the marshmallow plant, though modern versions use synthetic gelling agents.


SIMPLE

We roasted a marshmallow over the campfire.

CONTEXTUAL

The children loved watching each marshmallow melt into a sticky white goo inside their mugs of hot cocoa.

COMPLEX

Food scientists have perfected the marshmallow's unique texture by carefully controlling the ratio of air to sugar syrup, ensuring it remains light yet structurally sound enough for packaging.

Origin

From Old English mersċmealwe, corresponding to marsh + mallow.

Usage

Often used as an uncountable mass when referring to the substance generally, but countable when referring to individual pieces.

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