cardamom

noun

car·​da·​mom ˈkär-də-məm 

-ˌmäm

: the aromatic capsular fruit of an Indian herb (Elettaria cardamomum) of the ginger family with seeds used as a spice or condiment and in medicine

also : this plant

Examples of cardamom in a Sentence

a tablespoon of ground cardamom

Recent Examples on the Web

With top notes of cardamom and dried rose petals, mid notes of red wine, mahogany, and patchouli, and base notes of vanilla, black musk, and oud, Cold Cases is a rich, deep, woodsy scent, evoking a mysterious and even slightly ominous atmosphere. —Sharon Greenthal, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 June 2024

Try one of the Pink Glow drinks: a blend of beetroot, collagen, cardamom, and maple syrup. —Mélanie Nauche, Vogue, 22 June 2024

The blend varies, but popular spices include cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, star anise, black pepper and nutmeg. —Clare Mulroy, USA TODAY, 18 Mar. 2024

Flavorings: Consider adding citrus zest, cream cheese, or spices like ground cardamom or black pepper for a flavorful touch. —Southern Living Test Kitchen, Southern Living, 10 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin cardamomum, from Greek kardamōmon, blend of kardamon peppergrass and amōmon, an Indian spice plant

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

cardamom

noun

car·​da·​mom ˈkärd-ə-məm, -ˌmäm 

: the aromatic capsular fruit of an Indian herb (Elettaria cardamomum) of the ginger family with seeds used as a spice and in medicine

also : this plant