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

It can be sliced and roasted in the oven with just a sprinkle of turmeric and a drizzle of olive oil; it can be served in a soup with ginger, coconut milk, and black pepper. —Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 18 Oct. 2024

There's some evidence that curcumin, a natural compound in turmeric, may help treat several types of skin problems. —Ann Pietrangelo, Verywell Health, 1 Oct. 2024

There is scientific evidence that supports some helpful effects from taking echinacea and turmeric, and they have been used throughout history. —Bryant Stamford, The Courier-Journal, 31 Oct. 2024

Prevents Cell Damage Golden milk may help prevent cell damage through turmeric's antioxidant qualities. —Sarah Bence, Verywell Health, 28 Oct. 2024

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