turmeric
/'tə:mərik/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A spice: A bright yellow powder made from the dried and ground rhizomes (underground stems) of the Curcuma longa plant, used extensively as a seasoning, coloring agent, and in traditional medicine.
- A plant: A tropical perennial herb (Curcuma longa) native to India and Southeast Asia, characterized by large leaves, yellow flowers, and a large, aromatic, deep yellow-orange rhizome.
Examples of Usage
- As a spice/seasoning:
- Add a teaspoon of turmeric to the curry for color and flavor.
- Golden milk is a popular drink made with milk and turmeric.
- Referring to the plant or its part:
- The turmeric plant is a member of the ginger family.
- The fresh turmeric rhizome looks similar to ginger but is orange inside.
Advanced Usage
- "Turmeric" in compound nouns: When used in compound terms, it specifies the type of product or derivative.
- turmeric powder: The most common form of the spice.
- turmeric extract: A concentrated form often used in supplements.
- turmeric root: Refers to the fresh or dried whole rhizome.
Variants and Related Words
- Curcumin (noun): The main active compound and pigment in turmeric, responsible for its yellow color and many of its studied health properties.
- Curcumin is known for its anti-inflammatory effects.
- Curcuma (noun): The botanical genus name for turmeric and related plants.
Synonyms
- Indian saffron: A term sometimes used for turmeric, referencing its use as a less expensive coloring agent similar to saffron.
- Curcuma longa: The scientific/Latin name for the turmeric plant.
Related Phrases and Collocations
- A pinch of turmeric: A small amount of the spice.
- The recipe only requires a pinch of turmeric.
- Turmeric stain: Refers to the strong, persistent yellow color turmeric can leave on surfaces.
- Be careful, as a turmeric stain is very difficult to remove from clothing.
Noun
- ground dried rhizome of the turmeric plant used as seasoning
- widely cultivated tropical plant of India having yellow flowers and a large aromatic deep yellow rhizome; source of a condiment and a yellow dye