cumin

noun

cum·​in ˈkə-mən  ˈkyü-  ˈkü- 

: a small annual herb (Cuminum cyminum) of the carrot family cultivated for its aromatic fruits

also : the seedlike fruit of cumin used as a spice

Did you know?

Cumin is a small, slender annual herb of the carrot family, cultivated in the Mediterranean region, India, China, and Mexico. Its seeds, which are actually dried fruits, are used in many mixed spices, chutneys, and chili and curry powders. Cumin is especially popular in Asian, North African, and Latin American cuisines. Its oil is used in perfumes, for flavoring liquors, and for medicinal purposes.

Examples of cumin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This lentil soup is slowly simmered with cumin and a touch of cayenne, delivering deep, comforting flavors. —Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Mar. 2025

Rich, dense, luxurious dark brew of Flake chocolate, brownies, red cherry tart, black licorice and both cumin and brown sugar on the finish. —Tom Mullen, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2025

Add the paprikas, cumin and coriander and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, stirring constantly. —Lynda Balslev, The Mercury News, 18 Feb. 2025

Versatile flavoring agents include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder. 7. —Lauren Panoff, Mph, Rd, Verywell Health, 10 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English cymen, from Latin cuminum, from Greek kyminon, of Semitic origin; akin to Akkadian kamūnu cumin

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for cumin

• crewman
• crewmen
• human
• lumen
• numen
• rumen
• suman
• acumen
• albumen
• albumin
• bitumen
• cerumen