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

In short, the true flavor is nothing like that of the condiment most people know. —Joan Gaylord, The Christian Science Monitor, 17 Jan. 2025

Red 40, another synthetic food dye used to achieve a bright crimson color in condiments and candy, will remain available for use. —Youri Benadjaoud, ABC News, 15 Jan. 2025

While many people stick to simply spreading onion jam on crackers and sandwiches or slathering it on meat, one of my favorite dishes to make with the condiment is salmon. —Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 12 Jan. 2025

In 2019, Falfurrias acquired condiment, sauce and spice manufacturer Sauer Brands, known for its Duke’s mayonnaise brand. —Catherine Muccigrosso, Charlotte Observer, 6 Jan. 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