curcumin

noun

cur·​cu·​min ˈkər-kyə-mən 

: an orange-yellow crystalline compound C₂₁H₂₀O₆ that constitutes the chief coloring principle of turmeric

Examples of curcumin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Turmeric contains the active compound curcumin, which is responsible for many of its health benefits. —Sohaib Imtiaz, Verywell Health, 20 Jan. 2026

Multiple studies have found that curcumin supplements can reduce pain and inflammation in people with osteoarthritis or other joint conditions. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 20 Jan. 2026

And, like all Pure Encapsulations products, the brand claims this curcumin supplement is free from common allergens, artificial or unnecessary ingredients, and GMOs. —Kristine Thomason, Vogue, 2 Jan. 2026

Combining supplements like zinc and curcumins (natural compounds found in turmeric) with existing antidepressants were found to improve symptoms. —Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 19 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French curcumine, from curcum- (from New Latin Curcuma, the turmeric plant, from Arabic kurkum) + -ine -in entry 1

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for curcumin

• acumen
• albumen
• albumin
• bitumen
• cerumen
• illumine
• inhuman
• nonhuman
• subhuman
• crewman
• crewmen
• cumin

Medical Definition

curcumin

noun

cur·​cu·​min ˈkər-kyə-mən 

: an orange-yellow crystalline compound C₂₁H₂₀O₆ that constitutes the chief coloring principle of turmeric