noun / adjective
maize
MAYZ/meɪz/
The cereal plant corn and its edible kernels.
The peeled maize husk reveals orderly rows of golden kernels.
Etymology
Mahiz was the native name of the corn plant. English maize first referred to its grain and then also to the plant that produces it.
In context
The Maya were cultivating the staple crop of maize, beans, squash, and chili pepper.
More examples
- Dried maize kernels can be ground into flour.
- Tall stalks of maize line the edge of the field.
- The maize curtains add a soft yellow accent to the room.
Forms
maize
Similar words
- corn
- The usual American word for the same crop and kernels.