turmeric

noun

tur·​mer·​ic ˈtər-mə-rik How to pronounce turmeric (audio)
also
ˈtü-mə- How to pronounce turmeric (audio)
 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There are two kinds, including one chip made with turmeric. Victoria Uwumarogie, Essence, 24 Feb. 2025 In the special, Maron comments on everything from society’s obsession with turmeric, to the end times of Trump, and the cultish, religious vibes of Marvel superfans. Will Digravio, TIME, 21 Feb. 2025 Infused with niacinamide, turmeric, vitamin C and fruit antioxidants, the offering brings a pink-hued glow and is meant to be worn either on its own or as a primer under one’s foundation for a boost of radiance. 6. Noor Lobad, WWD, 11 Feb. 2025 Add the salt, turmeric, egg and yolks, and lemon juice to the saucepan with the zesty sugar and whisk to combine. 3. Martin Sorge, Chicago Tribune, 11 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for turmeric

Word History

Etymology

Middle English turmeryte

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of turmeric was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Turmeric.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/turmeric. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

turmeric

noun
tur·​mer·​ic ˈtər-mə-rik How to pronounce turmeric (audio)
also
ˈtü-mə- How to pronounce turmeric (audio)
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 How to pronounce turmeric (audio)
variants also tumeric
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

More from Merriam-Webster on turmeric

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