curcumin

noun

cur·​cu·​min ˈkər-kyə-mən How to pronounce curcumin (audio)
: 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
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Your Inflammation Decreases Turmeric is best known for its active compound, curcumin, a potent antioxidant with powerful anti-inflammatory effects at high doses. Caitlin Pagán, Verywell Health, 2 Sep. 2025 The active ingredient, curcumin, is thought to be a potent anti-inflammatory, particularly effective for osteoarthritis of the knees. Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN Money, 26 Aug. 2025 Consider adding a pinch of black pepper or a sprinkle of coconut oil to boost curcumin's bioavailability. Emmanuella Ogbonna, Health, 25 Aug. 2025 Vibrant, golden turmeric, the darling Indian spice packed with curcumin, an anti-inflammatory powerhouse, has also been shown to prevent memory loss. Catharine Kaufman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for curcumin

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of curcumin was in 1850

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Cite this Entry

“Curcumin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/curcumin. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

curcumin

noun
cur·​cu·​min ˈkər-kyə-mən How to pronounce curcumin (audio)
: an orange-yellow crystalline compound C21H20O6 that constitutes the chief coloring principle of turmeric
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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