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garam masala

American  
[guhr-uhm muh-sah-luh, guh-rahm] / ˈgʌr əm məˈsɑ lə, gəˈrɑm /

noun

  1. an aromatic mixture of ground spices used in Indian cuisine, usually containing black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, nutmeg, and turmeric.


garam masala British  
/ ˈɡɑːrəm mɑːˈsɑːlə /

noun

  1. an aromatic mixture of spices, extensively used in curries

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of garam masala

First recorded in 1950–55; from Urdu garam masālā, literally, “hot spices”

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Over nihari, a hearty stew served during celebrations, the family dreamt up a menu heavy with cumin, cardamom, garam masala and saffron while discussing their journey to America.

From Salon • Oct. 5, 2025

Try some chili crisp or a subtler note with a warming spice, like cumin or garam masala.

From Salon • Feb. 5, 2025

In 2014, Ipsita Mazumdar, a biochemistry expert, tested popular spice brands in Kolkata which made chilli, cumin, curry powder, and garam masala.

From BBC • May 14, 2024

In our version, we stir in garam masala, a blend of warming spices, to add depth of flavor and to complement the slightly acidic tomatoes and yogurt.

From Washington Times • Dec. 11, 2023

Laughing as they chop onions and caramelize them with garam masala and turmeric and ginger and garlic, trying to replicate my nanni’s kheema.

From "Internment" by Samira Ahmed

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