marshmallows

Noun

marshmallow (countable and uncountable, plural marshmallows)

1. Marsh mallow, a species of mallow, Althaea officinalis, that grows in marshy terrain.
   • Our common Marsh Mallows have diverse soft, hoary white stalks rising to be three or four foot high, spreading forth many branches.1653, Nicholas Culpeper, The English Physician Enlarged, Folio Society, published 2007, page 180
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.
   • The Disagreeable Girl is a female of the genus homo persuasion, built around a digestive apparatus that possesses marked marshmallow proclivities.1906, Elbert Hubbard, Love, Life and Work
3. (figuratively) Someone who is soft and benign.
   • He acts like a total badass, but he's really just a marshmallow once you get to know him.

See all 4 meanings of marshmallow