Definition

1. Noun:
   • A widely cultivated tropical plant native to India, characterized by yellow flowers and a large, aromatic, deep yellow rhizome. It is the source of a common condiment and a yellow dye.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The spice in this curry comes from the dried rhizome of Curcuma domestica.
  • For centuries, Curcuma domestica has been used both in cooking and as a medicinal herb.

Advanced Usage

• In botanical and scientific contexts: The term is used to specify this particular species within the ginger family (Zingiberaceae), distinguishing it from other related plants like (a synonym in many contexts) or .
  • The study focused on the anti-inflammatory properties of extracts from Curcuma domestica.

Variants and Related Words

• Turmeric: The common name for the spice derived from the rhizome of .
  • Add a teaspoon of turmeric to the soup for color and flavor.
• Curcumin: The active chemical compound that gives its distinctive yellow color and many of its purported health benefits.
  • The supplement is high in curcumin.

Synonyms

• Curcuma longa: The alternative scientific name often used interchangeably with .
• Indian saffron: A colloquial term referring to turmeric's use as a coloring agent, similar to saffron.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "The golden spice": A common nickname for turmeric, referencing the bright yellow color of .
  • The golden spice, turmeric, is a staple in many Asian cuisines.

Noun

1. widely cultivated tropical plant of India having yellow flowers and a large aromatic deep yellow rhizome; source of a condiment and a yellow dye