cardamom

noun

car·​da·​mom ˈkär-də-məm 

-ˌmäm

: the aromatic capsular fruit of an Indian herb (Elettaria cardamomum) of the ginger family with seeds used as a spice and in medicine

also : this plant

Examples of cardamom in a Sentence

a tablespoon of ground cardamom

Recent Examples on the Web

Rather than relying on heavy sweetness, Persian desserts are lightly sweetened and perfumed with aromatics like rosewater, cardamom, and saffron. —Shivani Vora, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025

For seafood, try Barry Fish, a new hot spot for 2025 where award-winning chef Barry Bryson is making waves with unusual takes on kedgeree and ceviche with orange, pickled fennel, and cardamom. —Lottie Gross, AFAR Media, 20 May 2025

Add some cardamom to the cinnamon mixture for a different, slightly elevated and floral flavor. —Marianne Williams, Southern Living, 26 May 2025

Brush the top of the pie with the egg yolk wash and sprinkle the surface with the raw cane sugar and remaining cardamom. —Ellen Gray, Saveur, 15 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin cardamomum, from Greek kardamōmon, blend of kardamon peppergrass and amōmon, an Indian spice plant

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

cardamom

noun

car·​da·​mom ˈkärd-ə-məm, -ˌmäm 

: the aromatic capsular fruit of an Indian herb (Elettaria cardamomum) of the ginger family with seeds used as a spice and in medicine

also : this plant