turmeric root n 1: perennial herb of northeastern United States having a thick knotted yellow rootstock and large rounded leaves [syn: {goldenseal}, {golden seal}, {yellow root}, {turmeric root}, {Hydrastis Canadensis}]
Turmeric \Tur"mer*ic\, a. (Chem.) Of or pertaining to turmeric; resembling, or obtained from, turmeric; specif., designating an acid obtained by the oxidation of turmerol. [1913 Webster] {Turmeric paper} (Chem.), paper impregnated with turmeric and used as a test for alkaline substances, by which it is changed from yellow to brown. {Turmeric root}. (Bot.) (a) Bloodroot. (b) Orangeroot. [1913 Webster]