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 Turmeric is a bright yellow spice with a rich flavor and contains curcumin, a compound with powerful antioxidant benefits. — Carrie Madormo, Verywell Health, 14 Aug. 2026

Kash explains that turmeric contains a specific type of polyphenol called curcumin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties (and is what gives the spice its bright yellow color). — Marie Bladt, Vogue, 11 Aug. 2026

Turmeric + Black Pepper Turmeric’s star compound, curcumin, isn’t easily absorbed by the body on its own. — Lynn Andriani, Martha Stewart, 13 July 2026

Research suggests that curcumin may help reduce inflammatory markers involved in joint discomfort and cartilage degeneration. — Caitlin Beale, Health, 29 June 2026

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