English Explanatory Dictionary

marshmallow

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. Marsh mallow, a species of mallow, Althaea officinalis, that grows in marshy terrain.
  2. A type of confectionery, originally (since Ancient Egyptian times) made from this plant, but now generally made of sugar or corn syrup, gelatin that has been presoftened in water, gum arabic, flavorings, and sometimes beaten egg whites, all whipped to a spongy consistency.
  3. Someone who is soft and benign.
verb
  1. To soften (literally or figuratively).

Pronunciation

/mɑːʃˈmæləʊ/ /ˈmɑɹʃˌmɛl.oʊ/ /ˈmɑɹʃˌmæl.oʊ/ en-us-marshmallow.ogg /ˈmɑ(r)ʃməlo(w)/

Word forms

marshmallow marshmallows marsh mallow marsh-mallow marshmallowing marshmallowed

Etymology

From Old English mersċmealwe, corresponding to marsh + mallow.

Derived words

marbit marshmallow creme marshmallow fluff marshmallowy
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