cumin

noun

: a small annual herb (Cuminum cyminum) of the carrot family cultivated for its aromatic fruits
also : the seedlike fruit of cumin used as a spice

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Cumin is a small, slender annual herb of the carrot family, cultivated in the Mediterranean region, India, China, and Mexico. Its seeds, which are actually dried fruits, are used in many mixed spices, chutneys, and chili and curry powders. Cumin is especially popular in Asian, North African, and Latin American cuisines. Its oil is used in perfumes, for flavoring liquors, and for medicinal purposes.

Examples of cumin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Balance with other spices: Pairing with other spices like ginger, cloves, nutmeg, cumin, paprika, allspice, and more, can help round out the flavor profile—particularly for savory applications. Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 5 Jan. 2025 Ground nubbins of paprika, cumin, sage and black pepper that have moldered into flavorless, colored molecules. Scott Hocker, theweek, 23 Dec. 2024 La Cocina brings a taste of the northwesterly Catamarca region with empanadas that stand apart for their thick, buttery dough, hearty stew-like fillings, and seasonings like paprika and cumin. Allie Lazar, Saveur, 11 Dec. 2024 In a mixing bowl, combine the turkey, remaining broth, green onions, cilantro, cumin and sour cream. Kelly Brant, arkansasonline.com, 26 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for cumin 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English cymen, from Latin cuminum, from Greek kyminon, of Semitic origin; akin to Akkadian kamūnu cumin

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cumin was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near cumin

Cite this Entry

“Cumin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cumin. Accessed 21 Jan. 2025.

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