sesame

noun

ses·​a·​me ˈse-sə-mē 

also

ˈse-zə- 

1

: a widely cultivated chiefly tropical or subtropical annual erect herb (Sesamum indicum of the family Pedaliaceae)

also : its small seeds used especially as a source of oil and a flavoring agent

2

: open sesame

Illustration of sesame

• sesame 1

Examples of sesame in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The detection of fermentation yeasts suggests that the concoction had a base of beer or wine, which was enhanced with flavors from honey and possibly royal jelly, sesame seeds, pine nuts, licorice and grapes. —Ashley Strickland, CNN, 26 Nov. 2024

Big Boy’s classic burger features two beef patties, on a sesame seed bun with American cheese. —Susan Selasky, Detroit Free Press, 25 Nov. 2024

In addition to the psychedelic residue, scientists found that the cup contained traces of a variety of substances including alcohol, honey, sesame seeds, pine nuts, licorice and grapes. —Julia Binswanger, Smithsonian Magazine, 25 Nov. 2024

The other major allergens are tree nuts, milk, fish, shellfish, peanuts, wheat, sesame and soybeans. —Matt Robison, Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

alteration of earlier sesam, sesama, from Latin sesamum, sesama, from Greek sēsamon, sēsamē, of Semitic origin; akin to Akkadian šamaššamu sesame

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing sesame

• open sesame
• sesame oil

Kids Definition

sesame

noun

ses·​a·​me ˈses-ə-mē 

1

: a hairy herb of warm regions that is grown for its seeds

also : its small somewhat flat seeds that are used as a source of oil and to flavor food

2

: open sesame

Medical Definition

sesame

noun

ses·​a·​me

ˈses-ə-mē also ˈsez-

: a widely cultivated annual erect herb (Sesamum indicum synonym S. orientale of the family Pedaliaceae)

also : its small somewhat flat seeds used as a source of sesame oil and a flavoring agent