asafoetida
|a-sa-foe-ti-da|
🇺🇸
/ˌæsəˈfɛtɪdə/
🇬🇧
/ˌæsəˈfiːtɪdə/
stinking resin spice
Etymology
'asafoetida' originates from New Latin, specifically the word 'asafoetida', where 'asa' (from Persian/Arabic) meant 'resin' and Latin 'foetida' (from 'foetidus') meant 'foul‑smelling'.
'asafoetida' changed from Medieval/ New Latin compound 'asa foetida' and entered English in the 16th–17th century as the fused form 'asafoetida', via botanical and medicinal Latin usage.
Initially, it meant 'a foul‑smelling resin used in medicine', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a strong‑smelling resin or spice used especially in South Asian cooking'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a strong‑smelling gum‑resin obtained from the roots of certain Ferula species, used in traditional medicine and cooking.
Asafoetida is sold as a dried resin or powdered spice in many markets.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a pungent spice (often called 'hing') used especially in South Asian cooking to add an onion‑ or garlic‑like flavor.
A pinch of asafoetida gives lentils a deep, savory aroma.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/10/25 07:26