sassafras

noun

sas·​sa·​fras ˈsa-sə-ˌfras 

1

: an eastern North American tree (Sassafras albidum) of the laurel family having both ovate and lobed aromatic leaves

2

: the carcinogenic dried root bark of the sassafras used formerly as a diaphoretic or flavoring agent

Examples of sassafras in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

What is filé powder? Also called gumbo filé, filé powder is made by harvesting the leaves of North American sassafras trees, and grinding them to a fine powder. —Pam Lolley, Southern Living, 27 Nov. 2023

Fresh, lively pinot noir with flavors of cherries and sassafras, this affordable wine makes for easy sipping on its own or with food. —Dave McIntyre, Washington Post, 1 Dec. 2022

Raleigh was also attempting to gain a monopoly over sassafras, and he was later imprisoned for treason. —Emilie Le Beau Lucchesi, Discover Magazine, 16 Nov. 2021

Black cherry, thyme and a hint of sassafras — simple, straightforward and delicious. —Dave McIntyre, Washington Post, 22 Dec. 2022

Word History

Etymology

Spanish sasafrás

First Known Use

1577, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

sassafras

noun

sas·​sa·​fras ˈsas-(ə-)ˌfras 

: a tall eastern North American tree that is related to the laurels and has fragrant yellow flowers and bluish black berries

also : its dried root bark used formerly in medicine or as a flavoring

Medical Definition

sassafras

noun

sas·​sa·​fras ˈsas-ə-ˌfras 

1

: a tall eastern North American tree (Sassafras albidum) of the laurel family (Lauraceae) with mucilaginous twigs and leaves

2

: the dried root bark of the sassafras formerly used as a diaphoretic and flavoring agent but now prohibited for use as a flavoring or food additive because of its carcinogenic properties