English · Word Candidate

popcorn

/ˈpɒp.kɔːn/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: popcorns · popcorning · popcorned

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A snack food made from corn or maize kernels popped by dry heating.

Noun

Examples

My friends and I ordered popcorn during the interval of the movie.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

A serving of popcorn.

Noun

Examples

Warner Bros has offered the two executives less than dollars 1m as an out-of-court settlement, a sum dismissed by Mr [Pierce] O'Donnell as 'two popcorns and two Cokes'.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To stand or jump up quickly.

Verb

Examples

Popcorning behavior is a fun sight—as long as you know what it is. Otherwise, it can scare you. During this action a pig runs around very fast and suddenly leaps straight up in the air, twitching and squeaking. It then lands and takes off again, often in another direction. This activity shows pure j

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

To pop repeatedly, like popcorn cooking.

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “popcorn” mean?

A snack food made from corn or maize kernels popped by dry heating.

Is “popcorn” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.