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

Blend the oil, garlic, ginger, oregano, black pepper, cumin, cloves, cinnamon and tomato paste together until smooth and heat them in a small pan until fragrant. —Caron Golden, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 June 2025

However, the mechanism by which cumin and lime intake might affect weight loss and reduce BMI is not fully understood.24 Other research shows that those who consumed cumin in a weight-reduction diet reduced their weight, BMI, and waist circumference. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 11 June 2025

But a recent favorite has been this Saucy, Spiced Shrimp and White Beans with earthy cumin and a pile of fresh herbs. —Olivia Quintana, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 Apr. 2025

At Heng Zhou Chilli King, order the cumin lamb, spicy fish head, chili king and spicy chicken. —Kaila Yu, Forbes.com, 29 Mar. 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