cinnamon
UK: ˈsɪnəmən | US: ˈsɪnəmən
n. 1. A aromatic spice made from the inner bark of certain trees, used in cooking and medicine.
n. 2. The tropical tree (genus Cinnamomum) whose bark yields this spice.
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cinnamon = cinnam<fragrant bark> + on<noun suffix>
- cinnam: Derived from Greek kinnámōmon, via Phoenician or Semitic languages, referring to the fragrant bark.
- on: A common noun-forming suffix in English, often neutral in meaning.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to ancient trade routes, borrowed from Greek kinnámōmon, which likely originated from a Semitic root (e.g., Hebrew qinnāmōn). The spice was highly prized in antiquity, and the name reflects its exotic, aromatic nature. Over time, the term evolved through Latin cinnamomum into Middle English cinnamon, retaining its core association with the fragrant bark.
She sprinkled cinnamon on her oatmeal for extra flavor.
Cinnamon is a key ingredient in many traditional desserts.
The smell of cinnamon filled the kitchen during the holidays.
Ancient Egyptians used cinnamon in embalming rituals.
The cinnamon tree is native to Sri Lanka and southern India.