cumin

noun

cum·​in ˈkə-mən  ˈkyü-  ˈkü- 

: a small annual herb (Cuminum cyminum) of the carrot family cultivated for its aromatic fruits

also : the seedlike fruit of cumin used as a spice

Did you know?

Cumin is a small, slender annual herb of the carrot family, cultivated in the Mediterranean region, India, China, and Mexico. Its seeds, which are actually dried fruits, are used in many mixed spices, chutneys, and chili and curry powders. Cumin is especially popular in Asian, North African, and Latin American cuisines. Its oil is used in perfumes, for flavoring liquors, and for medicinal purposes.

Examples of cumin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The protein, which is grilled steak marinated in a blend of cumin, coriander, garlic and oregano, topped with fresh lime and cilantro, is back for a limited time, though an end-date is not clear. —Sabrina Weiss, PEOPLE, 8 Sep. 2025

Or tender, juicy mojo pork marinated with savory cumin and cilantro, and brightened with zesty lime and orange juices. —Martie Bowser, Miami Herald, 5 Sep. 2025

Add kielbasa, onion, garlic, chili powder, salt, cumin and pepper; cook, stirring often, until onion is tender and kielbasa is browned, about 6 minutes. —The Know, Denver Post, 29 Aug. 2025

Stir in jalapeños, mole, garlic, and cumin; cook, stirring constantly, about 2 minutes. —Jasmine Smith, Southern Living, 27 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English cymen, from Latin cuminum, from Greek kyminon, of Semitic origin; akin to Akkadian kamūnu cumin

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for cumin

• crewman
• crewmen
• human
• lumen
• numen
• rumen
• suman
• acumen
• albumen
• albumin
• bitumen
• cerumen