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

Its medicinal benefits stem from its active ingredient curcumin, which gives turmeric its vibrant yellow color and antioxidant potential.12 1. —Lauren O'Connor, Health, 5 May 2025

Overall, turmeric might offer a small extra benefit for some people. —Patricia Weiser, Pharmd, Verywell Health, 29 Apr. 2025

Let soak for 5 minutes, then transfer the cashews and water to a blender and puree until smooth. 5: To the paneer mixture, add the coriander, cumin, chili powder and turmeric, and cook, stirring, until the flavors meld, about 2 minutes. —The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Apr. 2025

How well your body absorbs and uses turmeric and curcumin depends on how it's consumed. —Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 21 Apr. 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