sumac

noun

su·​mac ˈshü-ˌmak  ˈsü- 

variants or less commonly sumach

1

: any of a genus (Rhus) of trees, shrubs, and woody vines of the cashew family that have leaves turning to brilliant colors in the autumn, small usually dioecious flowers, and spikes or loose clusters of red or whitish berries compare poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac

2

: a material used in tanning and dyeing that consists of dried powdered leaves and flowers of various sumacs

3

: the tart dried and ground red berries of several sumacs (such as Rhus coriaria) used as a spice especially in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cooking

Examples of sumac in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

But the sumac from Heray Spice is chopped, then preserved with salt to enhance and concentrate those flavors and highlight its mild smokiness. —The Bon Appétit Staff & Contributors, Bon Appétit, 10 Dec. 2024

Poison sumac leaves are reddish-orange in the spring and fall, and deep, glossy green in the summer. —Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Sep. 2024

The tangy sumac and fiery chili create a bold, punchy sip that keeps you coming back for more. —Stephanie Gravalese, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024

The Satin Mini Dress is currently $32 off at $126, and comes in two festive hues that are perfect for your upcoming holiday party: a stunning sumac burgundy and a crisp flashing red. —Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 29 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English sumac, from Anglo-French, ultimately from Arabic summāq

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing sumac

• poison sumac
• staghorn sumac

Kids Definition

sumac

noun

su·​mac

variants also sumach

ˈsü-ˌmak 

ˈshü-

1

: a material used in tanning and dyeing made of the leaves and other parts of sumac

2

: any of a genus of trees, shrubs, and woody vines related to the cashew and having leaves turning to brilliant colors in autumn, spikes or loose clusters of red or whitish berries, and in some cases leaves or berries that are irritating to the skin compare poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac

Medical Definition

sumac

noun

su·​mac

variants also sumach

ˈsü-ˌmak  ˈshü- 

: any of various plants of the genus Rhus including several (as poison sumac) having foliage poisonous to the touch compare poison ivy, poison oak