tamarind

American  

[tam-uh-rind] / ˈtæm ə rɪnd /

noun

1. the pod of a large, tropical tree, Tamarindus indica, of the legume family, containing seeds enclosed in a juicy acid pulp that is used in beverages and food.

2. the tree itself.

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tamarind British  

/ ˈtæmərɪnd /

noun

1. a leguminous tropical evergreen tree, Tamarindus indica, having pale yellow red-streaked flowers and brown pulpy pods, each surrounded by a brittle shell

2. the acid fruit of this tree, used as a food and to make beverages and medicines

3. the wood of this tree

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Etymology

Origin of tamarind

1525–35; < Medieval Latin tamarindus ≪ Arabic tamr hindī literally, Indian date

Example Sentences

By the time you’re invited to nibble the pulp off seeds straight from a tamarind pod, a palate cleanser before dessert, you may have forgotten that the island you’re on is Manhattan.

From The Wall Street Journal

Swirls of coconut, tamarind, chamoy and cucumber are dusted with lime chili flakes, creating a deeply complex candy experience.

From Salon

So any souring agent, whether it's tamarind or pomegranate paste or lemons or vinegar is so vital in anything I cook.

From Salon

She immediately earned accolades, and not just for beers with Mexican flavors — tamarind, Mexican chocolate, chile.

From Los Angeles Times

Hardly a week goes by without using saffron, turmeric, pomegranate molasses, tamarind, cinnamon, or sumac in my cooking.

From Salon