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

Add the sunflower or pumpkin seeds, cumin, cardamom, remaining coriander and ½ teaspoon salt. —Kelly Brant, Arkansas Online, 8 Apr. 2025

Stir together the salt, pepper, cumin, and 1 tablespoon oil in a small bowl. —Catherine Jessee, Southern Living, 27 Mar. 2025

Add the salt, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder and cumin to a small mixing bowl. —Peter Burke, Fox News, 9 Mar. 2025

Stir together cumin, chili powder, coriander and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt in a large bowl. —Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 23 Mar. 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