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

Toss chickpeas with 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, pepper, cumin and chili powder. —Caron Golden, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Jan. 2026

Stir in the remaining whole beans, the corn, corn chips, rice, egg, onion, salsa, chipotle peppers, cumin, and garlic. —Holly Riordan, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Jan. 2026

Add a pinch of cayenne, cumin, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty, savory twist that gives your morning a flavorful kick. —Lauren O'Connor, Health, 7 Jan. 2026

Combine the cumin, caraway and mustard seeds in a small skillet and heat over low heat until fragrant. —John Metcalfe, Mercury News, 31 Dec. 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