The phrase "burnt popcorn" refers to popcorn that has been cooked for too long and turned black and unpleasant tasting. It's used to describe a situation or experience that has gone wrong or turned out poorly.
Sentences with «burnt popcorn»
If the almonds start to smell like burnt popcorn, you've left them in the oven too long. (cookeatpaleo.com)
It's not terrible, but it doesn't smell like coffee More like slightly burned popcorn. (unihomemaker.wordpress.com)
Oh gosh, the smell of burning popcorn, I am all too familiar with that one too haha! (feastingonfruit.com)