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

Some food manufacturers use concentrated forms of natural pigments found in fruits and plants -- such as beets, blackberries, paprika, saffron, tamarind and turmeric -- as dyes. —Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 23 Apr. 2025

World of Chris Collins Harlem Nights Eau de Parfum This luxurious fragrance channels the spirit of Harlem’s vibrant nightlife with rich notes of rum, saffron, and vanilla. —Corein Carter, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025

Une Nuit Nomade Fleur des Fleurs Inspired by Bali, Indonesia $135 at Lucky Scent Bali’s tropical flowers, specifically Ylang-Ylang, combine with amber, grapefruit, saffron, and jasmine to capture the lush character of the island. —Calin Van Paris, Outside Online, 20 Mar. 2025

In the evening, saffron risotto balls, fresh focaccia bread, and a marbled Miyako steak make their way to nearly every table. —Kristin Braswell, Travel + Leisure, 15 Apr. 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 sativa) that is the source of saffron

called also saffron crocus