cumin

American  

[kuhm-uhn, koom-, koo-muhn, kyoo-] / ˈkʌm ən, ˈkʊm-, ˈku mən, ˈkyu- /

noun

1. a small plant, Cuminum cyminum, of the parsley family, bearing aromatic, seedlike fruit, used in cooking and medicine.

2. the aromatic fruit or seeds of Cuminum cyminum.

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cumin British  

/ ˈkʌmɪn /

noun

1. an umbelliferous Mediterranean plant, Cuminum cyminum, with finely divided leaves and small white or pink flowers

2. the aromatic seeds (collectively) of this plant, used as a condiment and a flavouring

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Etymology

Origin of cumin

First recorded before 900; Middle English comyn, cumin (from Old French comin ) from Latin cumīnum, from Greek kýmīnon, from Semitic (compare Arabic kammūn, Hebrew kammōn cumin); replacing Old English cymen from Latin, as above

Compare meaning

How does cumin compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• black cumin vs. cumin

Example Sentences

"Cumin seeds add a subtle earthiness, and the creamy texture of cashews is the perfect replacement for traditional heavy cream, as it seamlessly balances the pureed sauce," says recipe developer Archana Mundhe.

From Salon • Feb. 1, 2022

Cumin wasn't outright listed on the ingredients list, but it is mentioned in the description of the soup on the Panera website.

From Salon • Jan. 30, 2022

Cumin and cracked coriander make up the crust on the crunchy, twice-marinated bhatti da murgh.

From New York Times • Dec. 11, 2018

Cumin vinaigrette made kale salad exciting, but the pickled jicama, pepitas and orange segments could have played a larger role.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 21, 2017

“Hmmm, a thoughtful girl. Cumin is what I advise. Rare and odorous. Not in your queen’s herb bed, I am sure. A poultice applied to the side. I will prepare it now.”

From "Ophelia" by Lisa Klein