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

Note that yellow Chartreuse, made by the same monks but heavily flavored with honey and saffron, is not a good substitute. —Rick Bayless, Midwest Living, 13 May 2026

The sweet breads and pastries, scented with saffron, orange blossom water or baking spices, are in a case around the corner to the left. —Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 9 May 2026

Ceviche, garlic naan, Caesar salad and saffron rice pilaf sit side-by-side on the menu at the original Vintage Park location. —Aviva Bechky, Houston Chronicle, 6 May 2026

Studies suggest that saffron may benefit brain health by affecting serotonin levels in the brain. —Merve Ceylan, Health, 30 Apr. 2026

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