curcumin

noun

cur·​cu·​min ˈkər-kyə-mən How to pronounce curcumin (audio)
: an orange-yellow crystalline compound C21H20O6 that constitutes the chief coloring principle of turmeric

Examples of curcumin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Studies suggest that taking curcumin before and after exercise can reduce muscle soreness, decrease inflammation, and improve athletic performance.910 3. Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 2 Apr. 2025 The curcumin present in turmeric is also poorly absorbed by the body. Lindsey Desoto, Health, 31 Mar. 2025 Turmeric gets its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties from a natural compound, or polyphenol, called curcumin. Gillian Mohney, Verywell Health, 26 Mar. 2025 Adding a pinch of black pepper can significantly increase the bioavailability of curcumin, the main active component of turmeric.4 3. Jillian Kubala, Health, 24 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for curcumin

Word History

Etymology

French curcumine, from curcum- (from New Latin Curcuma, the turmeric plant, from Arabic kurkum) + -ine -in entry 1

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of curcumin was in 1850

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Cite this Entry

“Curcumin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/curcumin. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

Medical Definition

curcumin

noun
cur·​cu·​min ˈkər-kyə-mən How to pronounce curcumin (audio)
: an orange-yellow crystalline compound C21H20O6 that constitutes the chief coloring principle of turmeric
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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