saffron

saf·fron

noun \ˈsa-ˌfrän, -frən\

Definition of SAFFRON

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

Origin of SAFFRON

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

First Known Use: 13th century