saffron

noun

saf·​fron ˈsa-ˌfrän  -frən 

1

a

: the deep orange aromatic pungent dried stigmas of a purple-flowered crocus (Crocus sativus) used to color and flavor foods and formerly as a dyestuff and in medicine

b

: the crocus supplying saffron

2

: a moderate orange to orange yellow

Examples of saffron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

One review found that saffron positively impacted anxiety and depression symptoms. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 8 Oct. 2025

Cinnamon, ginger, cayenne pepper, cardamom, saffron, cloves, and black pepper, all deserve a spot in your anti-inflammatory diet. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 7 Oct. 2025

If trendy pastel yellow isn’t your preference, these sheets also come in several neutral and vibrant hues like sage and saffron. —Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 2 Oct. 2025

Creed’s newest masterwork blends smoky agarwood oil distilled from 80-year-old trees with ambergris and saffron, producing a scent that tempers oud’s somewhat polarizing character with a sense of restraint. —Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 30 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French saffron, safren, from Medieval Latin safranum, from Arabic zaʽfarān

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing saffron

• meadow saffron

Kids Definition

saffron

noun

saf·​fron ˈsaf-rən 

1

: the orange usually powdered dried stigmas of a purple-flowered crocus that are used especially to color or flavor foods

2

: an orange to orange yellow color

Medical Definition

saffron

noun

saf·​fron ˈsaf-rän  -rən 

1

: the deep orange aromatic pungent dried stigmas of a purple-flowered crocus used to color and flavor foods and formerly as a dyestuff and as a stimulant antispasmodic emmenagogue in medicine

2

: a purple-flowered crocus (Crocus sativa) that is the source of saffron

called also saffron crocus