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 In a small bowl, stir together garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt and pepper. Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 29 Aug. 2024 Add the garlic, cumin, chili powder, oregano, coriander, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper and stir to combine. Robin Miller, The Arizona Republic, 11 Jan. 2024 Garlic, onion powder, cumin, paprika, salt and pepper are also great seasonings to incorporate. Clare Mulroy, USA TODAY, 26 Mar. 2024 Potent flavorings like cloves, cumin, cinnamon, ginger, paprika and turmeric not only please waning tastebuds with intense flavor but add a punch of antioxidants. Gretchen McKay, Twin Cities, 17 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for cumin 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'cumin.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 19 Sep. 2024.

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