saffron

[ saf-ruhn ]

noun

1. Also called vegetable gold. a crocus, Crocus sativus, having showy purple flowers.
2. an orange-colored condiment consisting of its dried stigmas, used to color and flavor foods.
3. Also saffron yellow. a yellowish-orange color.

saffron

/ ˈsæfrən /

noun

1. an Old World crocus, Crocus sativus, having purple or white flowers with orange stigmas
2. the dried stigmas of this plant, used to flavour or colour food
3. meadow saffron
   another name for autumn crocus
4. false saffron
   another name for safflower
5. 1. an orange to orange-yellow colour
   2. ( as adjective )

      a saffron dress

Word History and Origins

Origin of saffron¹

1150–1200; Middle English saffran, saffron Old French safran < Medieval Latin saffrānum < Arabic zaʿfarān

Word History and Origins

Origin of saffron¹

C13: from Old French safran, from Medieval Latin safranum, from Arabic za'farān

Example Sentences

Lisa Topping, from Saffron Walden, Essex, sent a saliva sample to Atlas Biomed several years ago, paying around £100 for a personalised genetic report.

From BBC

Saffron Cordery, of NHS Providers, which represents NHS managers, said the extra money was “incredibly welcome”.

From BBC

She backed Brexit in the 2016 referendum before achieving her ambition of becoming an MP a year later, for the safe Conservative seat of Saffron Walden in Essex.

From BBC

Kemi Badenoch has represented North West Essex - the seat was previously called Saffron Walden - since 2017 and was trade secretary and minister for women and equalities in the last government.

From BBC

They left after painting the gate and walls saffron - a colour that is worn by many Hindu priests and is also the colour of flags of BJP and other Hindu parties.

From BBC