# marshmallow

/ˈmɑɹʃˌmɛɫoʊ/ (US) · /mˈɑːʃmɐlˌəʊ/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/marshmallow
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- We roasted a marshmallow over the campfire.
- The children loved watching each marshmallow melt into a sticky white goo inside their mugs of hot cocoa.
- 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.

## Usage notes

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

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.