nutmeg

[nuht-meg]

noun

1. the hard, aromatic seed of the fruit of an East Indian tree, Myristica fragrans, used in grated form as a spice.

2. the similar product of certain other trees of the same genus or other genera.

3. a tree bearing such seeds.

nutmeg

/ ˈnʌtmɛɡ /

noun

1. an East Indian evergreen tree, Myristica fragrans, cultivated in the tropics for its hard aromatic seed: family Myristicaceae See also mace 2

2. the seed of this tree, used as a spice

3. any of several similar trees or their fruit

4. a greyish-brown colour

verb

1. informal,  sport to kick or hit the ball between the legs of (an opposing player)

Other Word Forms

• nutmegged adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of nutmeg¹

1300–50; Middle English notemug ( g ) e, perhaps back formation from *notemugede ( -ede being taken as -ed ³ ), equivalent to note nut + mugede < Old French < Late Latin muscāta musky; musk, -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of nutmeg¹

C13: from Old French nois muguede, from Old Provençal noz muscada musk-scented nut, from Latin nux _nut + muscus _musk

Example Sentences

The waffles’ autumnal rendition incorporates pumpkin purée and seasonal spices like cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg to create a warming sweet treat that embodies fall joy.

From Salon

A batter laced with cinnamon, nutmeg, a punch of allspice.

From Salon

The cafe now offers six varieties and Ms Geraedts said customers loved the dish's rich, comforting flavour, seasoned with cayenne pepper, nutmeg, paprika and Worcestershire sauce.

From BBC

The pie's filling consists of sliced rhubarb and strawberries cooked in granulated sugar, cornstarch, nutmeg, and a pinch of fine sea salt.

From Salon

"They opened my eyes. They taught me it can't just be nutmegs. They improved me massively, they saw potential in me. It was just about bringing it out."

From BBC

Related Words

• cantaloupe 
• gourd 
• papaya 
• watermelon