sesame

UK: ˈsɛsəmi | US: ˈsɛsəmi

Definition
  1. n. A flowering plant cultivated for its edible seeds, commonly used in cooking and oil production.

Structure

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Etymology

The word "sesame" traces back to the Greek sésamon, borrowed from Semitic languages (e.g., Akkadian šamaššammu, Arabic simsim). It entered English via Latin sesamum and Old French sisame. The term’s journey reflects ancient trade routes, as sesame seeds were a valued commodity in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures. Its compact form in English preserves the original phonetic structure without divisible morphemes.

Examples
  1. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the salad for extra flavor.

  2. Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds.

  3. The bakery sells sesame bagels with a nutty aroma.

  4. Sesame oil is widely used in Asian cuisine.

  5. Open sesame! (a phrase popularized by Arabian Nights).