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

Smoothies: Add a teaspoon of turmeric to your favorite smoothie for a vibrant, antioxidant-boosting twist. —Lauren O'Connor, Health, 2 July 2025

The study suggests that coconut, papaya, dragon fruit, turmeric, star anise and coriander may play a large role in flavor for 2025. —Maggie Menderski, The Courier-Journal, 2 July 2025

That said, turmeric and curcumin applied to the skin benefited psoriasis, eczema, infections, and wound healing.14 8. —Megan Nunn, Verywell Health, 24 June 2025

And there’s a whole spectrum of spices including turmeric, cayenne, black pepper and ginger. —Jessica Dulong, CNN Money, 20 June 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