cumin

noun

cum·​in ˈkə-mən  ˈkyü-  ˈkü- 

: 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

Did you know?

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

Black cumin seed oil helps with unclogging pores, balancing and hydrating. —Bianca Salonga, Forbes, 18 Feb. 2025

Chickpea-Chicken Salad With Green Harissa Dressing Image In this filling salad, chickpeas are seasoned with a blend of cumin, sweet paprika and chile powder that’s found in a Moroccan street food snack. —Isobel Whitcomb, New York Times, 10 Feb. 2025

Flavored with earthy cumin, smoky bacon, and savory chicken bouillon granules—a pantry staple in many Latin American and Mexican kitchens—this simple soup is packed with incredible depth, and stays bright thanks to the fresh tomatoes and scallions folded in and sprinkled on top when serving. —Yvette Zuniga Jemison, Southern Living, 27 Jan. 2025

Here’s a recipe for kohlrabi and apple slaw with yogurt and cumin. —Ryan Fonseca, Los Angeles Times, 22 Jan. 2025

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

Rhymes for cumin

• crewman
• crewmen
• human
• lumen
• numen
• rumen
• suman
• acumen
• albumen
• albumin
• bitumen
• cerumen