condiment

noun

con·​di·​ment ˈkän-də-mənt 

plural condiments

: something (such as a seasoning, sauce, garnish, or topping) that is added to food usually after the food is prepared and that enhances or adds to its flavor

Mustard is a top-selling condiment, and although ketchup and mayonnaise consistently outrank it in popularity worldwide, more than 700 million pounds of mustard are sold every year …

—Melissa St. Aude

Then he presents … a bowl of creamy potatoes and a tray of six condiments, including pesto, horseradish, sea salt, red pepper sauce, raisin sauce and garlicky mayonnaise.

—Jerry Shriver

condimental

ˌkän-də-ˈmen-tᵊl 

adjective

Synonyms

• seasoning

Examples of condiment in a Sentence

the cafeteria's self-serve table has a full array of condiments

Recent Examples on the Web

Load up all three compartments with beverages, utensils, condiments, and the main course. —Lauren Thomann, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 June 2025

However, many of the items on our list — such as seedless watermelon, hamburger buns, skinless beef franks and condiments — can be found at these stores. —Evan Moore june 13, Charlotte Observer, 13 June 2025

Naperville’s two farmers markets will offer shoppers plenty of choices for fresh produce, baked goods, coffee, flowers, condiments, dog treats and much more this summer. —Annie Alleman, Chicago Tribune, 29 May 2025

In the exhibit, clear resin molds contain a variety of colorful objects, including Japanese food wrappers, condiments and snacks such as seaweed salad, pickled ginger and candy. —Regina Elling, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin condimentum, from condire to season

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

condiment

noun

con·​di·​ment ˈkän-də-mənt 

: something used to give food a good taste

especially : a tangy seasoning

Medical Definition

condiment

noun

con·​di·​ment ˈkän-də-mənt 

: something used to enhance the flavor of food

especially : a pungent seasoning

condimental

ˌkän-də-ˈment-ᵊl 

adjective