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

According to its website, Hyderabad House in Fort Worth is known for its biryani rice– a rice dish with vegetables, choice of protein and fragrant spices like turmeric, cumin and cardamom. —Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 1 Aug. 2025

There’s enough room for olive, vinegar, salt, pepper, thyme, cumin and more. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 31 July 2025

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, 30 July 2025

In a medium bowl, combine diced potatoes, 1 teaspoon vegetable oil, garlic powder, onion powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon cumin and salt. —Bethany Thayer, Freep.com, 19 July 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