1. a starchy substance extracted from the root of the cassava plant, used to make puddings and as a thickening agent
2. a pudding made from tapioca pearls cooked in milk or water

Examples

• The recipe calls for two tablespoons of tapioca to thicken the pie filling.
• My grandmother made delicious tapioca pudding with vanilla and cinnamon.
• Tapioca pearls are commonly used in bubble tea.
• The health food store sells tapioca flour as a gluten-free alternative.
• She stirred the tapioca constantly to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
• Tapioca is derived from the cassava root, which is native to South America.
• The creamy tapioca dessert was served chilled with fresh berries.