tamarind

[ tam-uh-rind ]

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.

tamarind

/ 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

Word History and Origins

Origin of tamarind¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of tamarind¹

C16: from Medieval Latin tamarindus, ultimately from Arabic tamr hindī Indian date, from tamr date + hindī Indian, from Hind India

Example Sentences

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

“I perceived a tamarind heaving up the earth,” he wrote, and he planted Hautboy Strawberries.

From Seattle Times

Cook: A tart tamarind glaze enlivens these brussels sprouts.

From New York Times

Take for example Thai tea, which is made from strongly-brewed black tea and spiced with star anise, crushed tamarind and cardamom.

From Salon