Skip to main content
Glite Dictionary
Roman coriander

Roman coriander

8.3
An herb from the Mediterranean with small strong seeds used as a spice like caraway
  • noun
translation icon : coriandro romano
  • The pungency of Roman coriander makes it a valued spice in Mediterranean cuisine.

Examples

  • Many Indian recipes call for Roman coriander seeds to enhance flavor.

  • You can find Roman coriander in specialty spice shops or international markets.

  • I love using Roman coriander in my dishes.

  • Have you tried Roman coriander in your cooking?

  • Many Indian recipes call for Roman coriander seeds to enhance flavor.

  • The pungency of Roman coriander makes it a valued spice in Mediterranean cuisine.

  • You can find Roman coriander in specialty spice shops or international markets.

Synonyms

Nigella sativa
vsRoman coriander
  • Specialized
1 8.5

A plant with strong tasting seeds used as a spice like caraway

is the common culinary name rather than the scientific term
black caraway
vsRoman coriander
7.5

Small dark seeds from a Mediterranean plant that people use as a spice like caraway

is the specific botanical name used in scientific contexts

Surface Forms

Roman coriander singular
Roman coriananders plural

Morphology

Roman + coriander

The modifier 'Roman' + noun 'coriander' is compositionally clear: a B1 learner would reasonably infer a variety or type of coriander (an herb) from the constituents. However, the lexicalized meaning refers to a different species (Nigella sativa) used like caraway/coriander, so the exact identity and culinary equivalence are not fully predictable from the parts alone.

Etymology

Roman coriander may get its name from old cooks in Rome who used its small, strong seeds 'like coriander' in their food. So the name links Roman and coriander, which helps you remember it is a spicy seed used in cooking today.