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

In the past year, Dubai Multi Commodities Centre has developed new hubs for traders in cacao, meat and protein, honey, and saffron, in a push beyond its historical dominance in gold and diamonds. —Kelsey Warner, semafor.com, 17 June 2026

The finish is warming and tickles the back of the mouth with a lingering thread of saffron spice. —Brad Japhe, Forbes.com, 14 June 2026

On the menu, respectively, these cultures are highlighted in the shrimp Mozambique with chili and lemon; duck rice with chorizo and saffron; and piri piri chicken. —Jillian Dara, PEOPLE, 3 June 2026

For dinner, order the signature seafood experience or the fan-favorite gnocchi with pumpkin saffron purée, crispy sage, and cheese fondue. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026

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 sativus) that is the source of saffron

called also saffron crocus