Corn, also known as maize (Zea mays), is a cereal grain and staple food crop that originated in the Americas and is now grown worldwide. In Hebrew, corn is called תירס (tiras). The term "corn" originally referred to any cereal grain, but in the United States and Canada, it specifically denotes maize. Corn is a versatile crop used for human consumption, animal feed, and industrial purposes such as biofuel production. It plays a crucial role in global agriculture, with the United States, China, and Brazil being among the largest producers. Corn is also a significant component of many traditional and modern cuisines, including tortillas, polenta, and cornmeal. In Spanish, corn is called maíz, and in French, it is referred to as maïs. The plant is an annual grass that grows to a height of 2–3 meters (6–10 feet) and produces ears of kernels, which are the edible part of the plant.