tamarind

noun

tam·​a·​rind ˈta-mə-rənd 

-ˌrind

1

: an African evergreen tree (Tamarindus indica) of the legume family that is widely grown in tropical regions and has hard yellowish wood, pinnate leaves, red-striped yellow flowers, and an edible fruit

2

: the fruit of the tamarind tree consisting of an oblong brown pod containing 1 to 12 flat seeds embedded in a brownish, sticky, acidic pulp which is used especially in preserves and pastes and to flavor foods and beverages

Illustration of tamarind

Examples of tamarind in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The former list includes quaffs such as the Bazaar Paloma (mezcal, tamarind, grapefruit), while the latter encompasses sips like the Weak in the Knees (a milk punch with Pathfinder amaro, spiced tamarind syrup, lemon, and demerara sugar). —Tori Latham, Robb Report, 15 Jan. 2025

Enjoy luscious libations that feature elements like fragrant lemongrass, fresh tamarind or Bali’s arak, each one showcasing the innovative skills of the bartenders. —Sandra MacGregor, Forbes, 14 Jan. 2025

That’s quite the array of ingredients, but considering the fact that molasses, cloves, and tamarind (a sweet-sour fruit that’s grown in tropical climates) are in the mix tracks with a sweet quick bread recipe. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Jan. 2025

Cocktails include a Bazaar Paloma, featuring mezcal, tamarind, grapefruit and warm spices. —Kate Bradshaw, The Mercury News, 13 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Spanish & Portuguese tamarindo, from Arabic tamr hindī, literally, Indian date

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

tamarind

noun

tam·​a·​rind ˈtam-ə-rənd 

-rind

: a tropical tree of the legume family that has hard yellowish wood, feathery leaves, and red-striped yellow flowers

also : its fruit which has a sour pulp used especially for preserves or as a seasoning in cooking

Medical Definition

tamarind

noun

tam·​a·​rind ˈtam-ə-rənd, -ˌrind 

1

: a tropical leguminous tree (Tamarindus indica) with hard yellowish wood and a fruit with an acid pulp

2

: the pulp of the partially dried ripe fruit of a tamarind used in herbal medicine especially for its laxative properties