1. the quality or state of containing starch or being starchy in texture
2. the quality of being overly formal, stiff, or rigid in manner or behavior

Examples

• The starchiness of the potatoes made them perfect for mashing.
• She reduced the starchiness of the pasta by rinsing it with cold water.
• His starchiness at the party made everyone feel uncomfortable.
• The teacher's starchiness gradually gave way to warmth as the semester progressed.
• The fabric's starchiness made it difficult to fold smoothly.
• Despite her initial starchiness, she proved to be quite friendly once you got to know her.