What does mustard mean?
Mustard is best known as a sharp, savory condiment made from the crushed seeds of mustard plants. It commonly appears in sauces, sandwich fillings, dressings, and condiments served with meat or cheese, and its flavor ranges from mild to intensely pungent. The word also refers more broadly to the mustard plant, the seeds themselves, and the plant’s edible leaves, which are commonly called mustard greens. Mustard seeds have also long been cultivated as an agricultural crop and as a source of oil. Less commonly, “mustard” names a dull yellow-brown color. In ordinary conversation, the prepared condiment is usually intended, while references to the plant or seeds are more likely in gardening, farming, and botanical contexts. The word is broadly international, although the crop, its culinary uses, and preferred varieties differ considerably around the world.
nounMustard is a pungent condiment made from the crushed seeds of mustard plants, usually prepared with water, vinegar, salt, and spices. The word can also refer to the plants themselves, their seeds and leaves, and a dull yellow-brown color.
- A pungent condiment made from prepared mustard seeds, eaten with meat, cheese, sandwiches, and other foods.
- The small seeds of mustard plants, especially when prepared as a condiment.
- Any of several plants in the mustard family, cultivated for their seeds and edible leaves.
- The edible leaves of a mustard plant, commonly called mustard greens.
- A dull yellow-brown color resembling prepared mustard.
"She spread a little sharp mustard over the roasted vegetables."
"The sandwich was filled with cheese, tomato, and a generous spoonful of mustard."
"Farmers sow mustard seeds in autumn to provide both a cover crop and a valuable source of oil."
The plural is uncommon and is used chiefly when referring to different varieties of mustard or mustard plants.
"The shop stocks several mustards, including mild, spicy, and grainy varieties."
Mustard can be a pungent sauce, a leafy vegetable, a source of oil, and a color—all from a small seed.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does mustard come from?
The English word comes from Middle English and was borrowed from Old French mustard. Its more remote origin is uncertain; although theories connect it with Latin and other languages, the derivation is not securely established, so the word is best traced with confidence only through Old French.
How mustard is actually used
The condiment sense dominates in everyday use. Botanical and agricultural contexts use the word for the plant, its seeds, or its leaves. The color sense is relatively uncommon, so “mustard yellow” is often clearer.