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

Consuming turmeric can relieve swollen and painful joints for people with chronic conditions. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 13 Feb. 2026

Then, talk to a healthcare provider about whether using turmeric as a complementary treatment option is right for you. —Sherri Gordon, Health, 10 Feb. 2026

Why These Compounds Aren’t a Substitute for Antibiotics While the new study presents interesting findings, turmeric and rhubarb compounds can't replace antibiotics for treating infections. —Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 8 Feb. 2026

This Moroccan seasoning of cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger and pepper is well worth keeping on hand. —Dallas Morning News, 5 Feb. 2026

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