saffron

noun

saf·​fron ˈsa-ˌfrän  -frən 

1

a

: the deep orange aromatic pungent dried stigmas of a purple-flowered crocus (Crocus sativus) used to color and flavor foods and formerly as a dyestuff and in medicine

b

: the crocus supplying saffron

2

: a moderate orange to orange yellow

Examples of saffron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Baccarat Rouge 540 tends to become a signature once someone commits to it, with its rich blend of jasmine, saffron, and amber that wears with a creamy, lingering finish. —Malia Griggs, Glamour, 18 Dec. 2025

At Dyletanci, the tasting menu features typical ingredients—horseradish, beets, kohlrabi, mushrooms, and trout—presented in the form of new and inventive dishes, highlighted by global influences like saffron, Roquefort, and truffle. —Teddy Minford, Vogue, 15 Dec. 2025

It is also suggested to use saffron sparingly, as the flavor can easily overpower a dish. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 12 Dec. 2025

Juxtaposed with Milanese classics like vitello tonnato, an impeccable saffron risotto and a moreish osso bucco are an oh-so-American lobster roll and an upscale take on the French pepper steak. —Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 5 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French saffron, safren, from Medieval Latin safranum, from Arabic zaʽfarān

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing saffron

• meadow saffron

Kids Definition

saffron

noun

saf·​fron ˈsaf-rən 

1

: the orange usually powdered dried stigmas of a purple-flowered crocus that are used especially to color or flavor foods

2

: an orange to orange yellow color

Medical Definition

saffron

noun

saf·​fron ˈsaf-rän  -rən 

1

: the deep orange aromatic pungent dried stigmas of a purple-flowered crocus used to color and flavor foods and formerly as a dyestuff and as a stimulant antispasmodic emmenagogue in medicine

2

: a purple-flowered crocus (Crocus sativus) that is the source of saffron

called also saffron crocus