cardamom

noun

car·​da·​mom ˈkär-də-məm 

-ˌmäm

: the aromatic capsular fruit of an Indian herb (Elettaria cardamomum) of the ginger family with seeds used as a spice and in medicine

also : this plant

Examples of cardamom in a Sentence

a tablespoon of ground cardamom

Recent Examples on the Web

Iris is the star ingredient of the juice, which opens with a blend of bergamot, cardamom and geranium, has a subtle hint of vanilla and carrot seed in its heart and mixes cedarwood and ambery woods in its base. —Sandra Salibian, WWD, 18 Feb. 2025

It’s built around Seedlip Spice 94, a liquid that showcases allspice and cardamom undertones. —Brad Japhe, The Hollywood Reporter, 15 Feb. 2025

The initial impression is light and subtly sweet like a scoop of pistachio gelato, but is beautifully balanced with notes of warm, earthy cardamom and patchouli. —Venus Wong, refinery29.com, 31 Jan. 2025

Add the garam masala, black pepper, chile powder, cardamom, and remaining ¼ teaspoon of salt and cook, stirring continuously, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. —Joe Yonan, Saveur, 23 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin cardamomum, from Greek kardamōmon, blend of kardamon peppergrass and amōmon, an Indian spice plant

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

cardamom

noun

car·​da·​mom ˈkärd-ə-məm, -ˌmäm 

: the aromatic capsular fruit of an Indian herb (Elettaria cardamomum) of the ginger family with seeds used as a spice and in medicine

also : this plant