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

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cumin, turmeric, chili, salt, maple syrup, garlic, and olive oil together. —Emma Lovewell, Flow Space, 19 July 2024

Some evidence suggests that turmeric can modify pro-inflammatory cells called cytokines. —Courtney Southwick, Health, 9 July 2024

One of the most popular, according to Nye, is the Saigon Mint Colada ($11), thick with coconut milk, pineapple, lime, mint, turmeric and nutmeg. —Lois K. Solomon, Sun Sentinel, 8 July 2024

The reason that mustard can be tricky to remove is the color of mustard seed and turmeric, which is often found in mustards. —Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 28 June 2024

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