kumkum

noun

kum·​kum

ˈku̇mˌku̇m

plural -s

1

: red turmeric powder used for making the distinctive Hindu mark on the forehead

2

: the mark on the forehead made with kumkum

Word History

Etymology

Hindi kuṅkum, from Sanskrit kuṅkuma saffron, perhaps of Semitic origin; akin to Hebrew karkōm saffron, crocus

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!