turmeric

noun

tur·​mer·​ic ˈtər-mə-rik 

also

ˈtü-mə- 

 or  ˈtyü-

1

: an Indian perennial herb (Curcuma longa synonym C. domestica) of the ginger family with a large aromatic yellow rhizome

2

: the boiled, dried, and usually ground rhizome of the turmeric plant used as a coloring agent, a flavoring, or a stimulant

3

: a yellow to reddish-brown dyestuff obtained from turmeric

Examples of turmeric in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Some of the foods that have the most lithium are leafy green vegetables, nuts, legumes and some spices like turmeric and cumin. —Brenda Goodman, CNN Money, 7 Aug. 2025

These products may also contain additional ingredients, such as turmeric and ginger. 9. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 23 July 2025

The formula won’t clog pores and is packed with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial ingredients like turmeric and heartleaf extract, which is why Dr. Hovenic recommends it to patients with acne-prone or sensitive skin. —Iman Balagam, Vogue, 11 July 2025

According to the network, liver injuries tied to turmeric have increased significantly. —Emilie Ikeda, NBC news, 9 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English turmeryte

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

turmeric

noun

tur·​mer·​ic ˈtər-mə-rik 

also

ˈtü-mə- 

ˈtyü-

1

: an Indian herb related to ginger and having a large yellow underground plant stem

2

: the boiled, dried, and usually ground underground plant stem of turmeric used especially as a flavoring or dye

Medical Definition

turmeric

noun

tur·​mer·​ic ˈtər-mə-rik 

variants also tumeric

ˈt(y)ü-mə- 

1

: an Indian perennial herb (Curcuma longa) of the ginger family with a large aromatic yellow rhizome

2

: the cleaned, boiled, dried, and usually ground rhizome of the turmeric plant used in dietary supplements and herbal remedies and as a spice see curcumin

3

: a yellow to reddish brown dyestuff obtained from turmeric