nutmeg

American  

[nuht-meg] / ˈnʌt mɛg /

noun

1. the hard, aromatic seed of the fruit of an East Indian tree, Myristica fragrans, used in grated form as a spice.

2. the similar product of certain other trees of the same genus or other genera.

3. a tree bearing such seeds.

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nutmeg British  

/ ˈnʌtmɛɡ /

noun

1. an East Indian evergreen tree, Myristica fragrans, cultivated in the tropics for its hard aromatic seed: family Myristicaceae See also mace 2

2. the seed of this tree, used as a spice

3. any of several similar trees or their fruit

4. a greyish-brown colour

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verb

1. informal  sport to kick or hit the ball between the legs of (an opposing player)

Other Word Forms

• nutmegged adjective

Etymology

Origin of nutmeg

1300–50; Middle English notemug ( g ) e, perhaps back formation from *notemugede ( -ede being taken as -ed ³ ), equivalent to note nut + mugede < Old French < Late Latin muscāta musky; musk, -ate ¹

Example Sentences

Once you know those, you’re free to riff — to add lemon zest or nutmeg or a fistful of herbs — the culinary equivalent of adding fringe.

From Salon

I’ve seen everything from nutmeg to mustard to egg listed as optional recommended additions.

From Salon

Warm, cozy spices take center stage: brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, a little orange zest.

From Salon

Signs of Estevao's quality were evident in previous matches, with his array of nutmegs, flicks and other eye-catching moments drawing gasps from the crowd.

From BBC

The waffles’ autumnal rendition incorporates pumpkin purée and seasonal spices like cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg to create a warming sweet treat that embodies fall joy.

From Salon

Related Words

• cantaloupe
• gourd
• papaya
• watermelon