What does marshmallow mean?
A marshmallow is a soft, spongy confection made from whipped egg white and sugar, although modern versions often contain little or no egg white. It may be eaten plain, toasted over heat, added to desserts, or floated in hot chocolate. The name reflects the word's older connection with the mallow plant and its traditional use in confectionery and medicine. As a verb, “marshmallow” means to soothe, placate, or comfort someone, usually in an informal or gently humorous way. It can also refer, less commonly, to cushioning or protecting an object with marshmallows. The word is especially associated with campfires, seasonal treats, and childhood snacking, while its verb form is often used when someone attempts to calm another person’s worries or emotions.
A soft, aerated confection made from sugar and egg white or another foaming ingredient, often toasted before eating.
"He put a toasted marshmallow on top of his mug of hot chocolate."
To soothe, placate, or comfort someone, especially in an informal or playful manner; also, more rarely, to cushion or protect something with marshmallows.
"She marshmallowed him into agreeing to stay for dinner."
The soothing sense is informal and generally affectionate or humorous rather than formal.
Use the plural when referring to multiple confections or pieces of confection.
"They roasted marshmallows and made s'mores by the fire."
The marshmallow began with a connection to damp ground: its name joins “marsh” with the mallow plant, whose root was once used in medicinal remedies.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does marshmallow come from?
“Marshmallow” was formed in the early nineteenth century from “marsh” and “mallow.” The confection was originally flavored or made with the sap or root of the mallow plant, a plant associated with damp ground and formerly used in medicinal preparations. “Mallow” derives from Old English “mealwe,” which came through Latin “malva” from Greek “malva,” the source of related forms such as “malva” and “mauve.”
Related word forms
How marshmallow is actually used
The verb “marshmallow” is informal and somewhat playful; it often suggests using reassurance or gentle persuasion to ease someone's anxiety. The specialized sense of cushioning something with marshmallows is uncommon.
Easily confused with marshmallow
Mallow is the plant whose sap and root were historically used in medicinal preparations and confectionery, whereas a marshmallow is now a soft sugar confection.