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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Like all supplements, turmeric and curcumin may cause side effects, interact with medications, and pose risks for specific populations. Megan Nunn, Verywell Health, 7 Oct. 2025 Turmeric and its primary active ingredient, curcumin, have several health benefits. Jillian Kubala, Health, 30 Sep. 2025 Kreitenberg recommends pairing medical care with lifestyle strategies, such as low-impact exercises like swimming and yoga, anti-inflammatory eating patterns paired with natural compounds like curcumin and boswellia and good posture and proper footwear. Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 20 Sep. 2025 This powder boasts a high curcumin content of 3%, which is the highest natural curcumin in an organic turmeric product, according to the brand. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 4 Sep. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Curcumin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/curcumin. Accessed 10 Oct. 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!