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

Summary Most people can safely take magnesium and turmeric together. —Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 2 Apr. 2025

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

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