# sesame

/ˈsɛsəmi/ (US) · /sˈɛsɐmˌi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sesame
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. the seed

noun · CEFR B2

the small, flat seeds of the sesame plant, often found on bread or used in Asian cooking.

For teachers: the small, oval, oil-rich seeds of the Sesamum indicum plant, widely used as a condiment or ingredient in global cuisines.

- The burger bun was covered in toasted sesame seeds.
- The chef finished the dish with a generous sprinkle of black sesame, adding both a nutty flavour and a striking visual contrast.

Usage: Often used as a modifier before another noun, as in 'sesame oil' or 'sesame seeds'.

### 2. the plant

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the tropical plant that these seeds grow on.

For teachers: the tropical Asian herbaceous plant itself, belonging to the family Pedaliaceae.

- Farmers in the region have started growing sesame because it survives well in dry weather.
- The cultivation of sesame requires a long period of warmth, making it a staple crop in tropical and subtropical climates across Asia and Africa.

Usage: Uncountable when referring to the crop in general; countable when referring to specific botanical species.

## Examples

- I love the taste of toasted sesame seeds on my bread.
- The chef sprinkled black sesame over the tuna to add a subtle crunch and visual contrast to the dish.
- Cultivated for thousands of years across Asia and Africa, sesame remains a staple crop due to its ability to grow in arid conditions where other plants fail.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.