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 study of adults living with type 2 diabetes examined the consumption of black tea infused with cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, or saffron. — Eleesha Lockett, Verywell Health, 23 Aug. 2026

Anti Bast grounds saffron and warm cardamom (a fall spice rack classic) with incense absolute and amber, creating a warm, spicy scent ideal for cooler weather. — Loren Savini, Allure, 22 Aug. 2026

Menorcans often add additional ingredients for flavor—basil or saffron for savory or honey and cheese for sweet—after the mayonnaise is made. — Lauren David, Travel + Leisure, 22 Aug. 2026

The coupe’s saffron finish with cobalt-blue accents is a combination that has helped define LV’s color palette for much of its history. — Viju Mathew, Robb Report, 13 Aug. 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