sumac
Americannoun
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any of several shrubs or small trees belonging to the genus Rhus of the cashew family, having milky sap, compound leaves, and small, fleshy fruit.
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a preparation of the dried and powdered leaves, bark, etc., of certain species of Rhus, especially R. coriaria of southern Europe, used especially in tanning.
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the wood of these trees.
Etymology
Origin of sumac
1250–1300; Middle English < Medieval Latin < Arabic summāq
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.
Tart and sweet, Lev Sercarz likens sumac to a “red-wine vinegar powder of sorts.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 16, 2026
If that doesn’t do it, try a crank of freshly ground black pepper, a dash of sumac or a squeeze of lemon.
From Salon ● Mar. 21, 2025
Returning to the trail, with its soothing chorus of crickets, velvety laurel sumac shrubs and feathery wild grasses, something inside me loosened.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 7, 2024
Think about fresh herbs, curry powder, cumin, minced garlic, za’atar, chili powder, Aleppo pepper or sumac.
From Washington Times ● Dec. 4, 2023
A movement on the sumac bush outside caught her eye, and she flew at a blue jay.
From "Frightful's Mountain" by Jean Craighead George
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