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

Supports Heart Health Magnesium and turmeric together may reduce the risk of heart disease by decreasing inflammation, improving circulation, and supporting cardiovascular function. —Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 29 Jan. 2026

This mix has added boosts of ginger and turmeric, which are good for upset stomachs and might even ease seasickness symptoms. —Kelsey Glennon, Travel + Leisure, 26 Jan. 2026

And if your mature complexion has lost some of its luster, the radiance boost comes from a lineup of botanicals (saffron, manjishta, turmeric, licorice, and Indian barberry) that are traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to help even tone, brighten dullness, and calm visible inflammation. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 23 Jan. 2026

The menu includes porridge made from mung beans with cashews and coconut milk, lentil soup with chili or lemon rice with peanuts, mustard seeds and turmeric. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Jan. 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