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

Masala blends bring warmth through cumin, coriander, turmeric and chili. — Ryan Brennan, Sacbee.com, 6 Aug. 2026

Those seasonings typically include garlic (either fresh garlic or powdered garlic), acid (lime juice or wine vinegar), and oregano, but beyond that, individual restaurants may play around with spices like cumin, paprika, sugar, or even cayenne. — Taylor Tobin, Southern Living, 30 July 2026

Stir in tomato paste, tomatoes, salt, black pepper, Antep ground pepper and cumin. — Caron Golden, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 July 2026

In a bowl, stir together the nuts, cooled sesame seeds, coriander, cumin, salt (if using) and pepper. — Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 28 July 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