noun
caraway
KA-ruh-way
Caraway (noun) means a biennial plant grown mainly for its seeds, which are used as a spice. Example: “Caraway grows in many parts of Europe and Asia.”
noun
1
A biennial plant grown mainly for its seeds, which are used as a spice.
"Caraway grows in many parts of Europe and Asia."
"She planted caraway at the back of the herb bed."
"The plant flowers in its second year."
2
The seed-like fruit of the caraway plant, used to flavour food.
"The rye bread was scattered with caraway."
"Add a teaspoon of caraway to the cabbage."
"Caraway gives the sauerkraut a warm, earthy taste."
How to use caraway
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA plant whose small seeds are used to flavour bread, cabbage and other foods.
When to use it
It is an everyday cooking word, neutral in tone.
Common pairings
caraway seeds
caraway bread
caraway cake
a teaspoon of caraway
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like caraway.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____ grows in many parts of Europe and Asia.
Etymology
Caraway came into English from Middle English, which took it from Medieval Latin carui. That word came from Arabic, and reaches back through Aramaic to Ancient Greek.
Synonyms
View more →
Persian cumin
Rhymes for caraway
See all rhymes for caraway →Frequently asked questions
What is caraway used for?
Its seeds are used as a culinary spice.
What is the scientific name of caraway?
The caraway plant is Carum carvi.
Where does caraway come from?
The plant is native to Europe and Asia.
What is the meaning of caraway?
"caraway" (noun) means a biennial plant grown mainly for its seeds, which are used as a spice.
