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

Quinn took things further: What about tinting the rice with turmeric (instead of the traditional saffron) and stuffing it with dal or a chickpea curry for an Indian-style take? —The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 June 2025

That isn’t the only difference—finger lime, ginger, and turmeric are added to the botanical mix as well, making this overproof gin flavorful and refreshing despite its high proof. —Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 24 June 2025

Just so much dill and turmeric just all kind of knocked about in a skillet. —Bon Appétit, Bon Appetit Magazine, 11 June 2025

To boost lemon water's benefits, add honey, turmeric, ginger, apple cider vinegar, and more. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 2 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