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

On a plate like morog polao — cumin-scented rice with chicken in fragrant yogurt sauce — Jibran encouraged me to order a side of dal, pour some over the rice and mash in the bhorta. — Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 5 Nov. 2026

The marinade combines tamarind purée, fish sauce, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, and cumin, with extra glaze brushed on for maximum flavor and char. — Rachel Gurjar, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 Nov. 2026

Add 1 teaspoon of the oregano as well as the Aleppo pepper and the cumin. — Candy Hom, AJC.com, 26 Oct. 2026

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, the cumin, and coriander. — ABC News, 20 Oct. 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