kumkum

noun

kum·​kum
ˈku̇mˌku̇m
plural -s
1
: red turmeric powder used for making the distinctive Hindu mark on the forehead
2
: the mark on the forehead made with kumkum

Word History

Etymology

Hindi kuṅkum, from Sanskrit kuṅkuma saffron, perhaps of Semitic origin; akin to Hebrew karkōm saffron, crocus

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Dictionary Entries Near kumkum

Cite this Entry

“Kumkum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kumkum. Accessed 10 Oct. 2024.

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