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

Sprinkle with salt, cumin, and chipotle pepper; toss to coat. —Jessica Saari Christensen, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Nov. 2025

Made with Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Petite Sirah, and Malbec grapes from the Western Cape of South Africa, iBest Wines Red Blend has a dark fruit yet savory vibe, with spicy notes of peppercorn, cumin, and clove. —Essence, 26 Nov. 2025

Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength 7 Oil Blend Hair & Scalp Oil addresses the issue with castor oil to add weight and structural support, while black cumin seed oil brings antioxidants to help defend the cuticle from further wear. —Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 25 Nov. 2025

Black cumin, known as Nigella sativa or black seed, is used in many Middle Eastern and Indian dishes like curries and naan. —Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 22 Nov. 2025

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