The Collaborative International Dictionary
Cuminum Cyminum
Cumin \Cum"in\ (k?m"?n), n. [OE.comin, AS. cymen, fr. L. cuminum, Gr. ???????; of Semitic origin, cf. Ar. kamm?n, Heb. kamm?n; cf. OF. comin, F. cumin. Cf. Kummel.] (Bot.) A dwarf umbelliferous plant, somewhat resembling fennel ( Cuminum Cyminum), cultivated for its seeds, which have a bitterish, warm taste, with an aromatic flavor, and are used like those of anise and caraway. [Written also cummin.]
Rank-smelling rue, and cumin good for eyes.
--Spenser.
Black cumin (Bot.), a plant ( Nigella sativa) with pungent seeds, used by the Afghans, etc.