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

MyFitnessPal shared a High-Protein Breakfast Quesadilla estimated at 31g using bacon, eggs, black beans, jalapeno, a whole-grain tortilla, cheddar, baby arugula and cumin. — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 2 Sep. 2026

Add chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper; cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 10 seconds. — Erin Merhar, Southern Living, 2 Sep. 2026

Slow-Cooker Carnitas Tacos A Midwest Living staff favorite, this slow cooker recipe simmers juicy pork shoulder with a blend of cumin, salt, oregano, cayenne, onions, and orange pieces. — Jasmine Thompson, Midwest Living, 28 Aug. 2026

Since then, raw egg yolks, pickle brine, cumin seeds, six-packs of Coke, and greasy breakfast sandwiches have all been credited with easing our post-drinking ailments. — Shayla Love, New Yorker, 26 Aug. 2026

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