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

The cardamom banana pudding was inspired by the cardamom tea his dad drinks before bed. — Maven Navarro, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Aug. 2026

Chai’s core components — black tea (often Assam), whole milk, cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, star anise, cloves and sugar — are all standard grocery items. — Lauren Schuster, Kansas City Star, 27 Aug. 2026

In a large bowl combine first seven ingredients (through cardamom). — Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Aug. 2026

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

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