sesame

noun

ses·​a·​me ˈse-sə-mē 

also

ˈse-zə- 

1

: a widely cultivated chiefly tropical or subtropical annual erect herb (Sesamum indicum of the family Pedaliaceae)

also : its small seeds used especially as a source of oil and a flavoring agent

2

: open sesame

Illustration of sesame

• sesame 1

Examples of sesame in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Sardines, tofu, sesame seeds, soy milk, collard greens, certain cheeses, and fortified juices and cereals are high in calcium. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 17 Apr. 2026

The formula features nourishing essential oils like sunflower, safflower, sesame, and sweet almond to soften and support the barrier, while lavender, juniper, and citrus calm your body (and mind). —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 12 Apr. 2026

Cote’s favorite recipe is to cut the tuna into chunks, removing the blood lines, then marinating the fish overnight in a container with sesame oil and sesame seeds. —Steve Waters, Miami Herald, 10 Apr. 2026

Just like the food, the drinks are playful and use Asian ingredients, such as kosho, sesame, and Chinese five-spice. —Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 9 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

alteration of earlier sesam, sesama, from Latin sesamum, sesama, from Greek sēsamon, sēsamē, of Semitic origin; akin to Akkadian šamaššamu sesame

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing sesame

• open sesame
• sesame oil

Kids Definition

sesame

noun

ses·​a·​me ˈses-ə-mē 

1

: a hairy herb of warm regions that is grown for its seeds

also : its small somewhat flat seeds that are used as a source of oil and to flavor food

2

: open sesame

Medical Definition

sesame

noun

ses·​a·​me

ˈses-ə-mē also ˈsez-

: a widely cultivated annual erect herb (Sesamum indicum synonym S. orientale of the family Pedaliaceae)

also : its small somewhat flat seeds used as a source of sesame oil and a flavoring agent