coriander
coriander Lexical Profile
coriander Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The dried, spherical seeds of the coriander plant, used whole or ground as a warm, citrus-flavored culinary spice in curries, sausages, and baking.
"Toast the cumin and coriander in a dry pan until fragrant before grinding them."
British The fresh, pungent green leaves of the coriander plant, used as a culinary herb or garnish.
"Stir a handful of chopped coriander into the curry just before serving."
An aromatic annual plant of the parsley family (Coriandrum sativum), native to regions spanning from southern Europe and northern Africa to southwestern Asia, cultivated widely for its edible leaves and seeds.
"We decided to grow coriander, basil, and mint in the small herb garden on the balcony."
Word Nuance & Usage
In North American English, 'coriander' refers exclusively to the plant's dried seeds used as a spice, while the fresh leaves are called 'cilantro'. In British and most other varieties of English, 'coriander' is used for both the leaves and the seeds.
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old French 'coriandre', via Latin 'coriandrum', originating from Ancient Greek 'koriannon' or 'koriandron'. The root is often traditionally linked to 'koris' (bedbug), likely referring to the strong, pungent odor of the unripe leaves.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.