Definition of: saffron

(saf′rən) noun
1. An autumn-flowering species of crocus (Crocus sativus).
2. The dried orange-colored stigmas of this plant used for coloring confectionery, varnishes, etc., and in parts of the Old World as a flavoring and coloring ingredient in cookery.
3. A deep yellow orange: also saffron yellow.
—adjective Of the orange color of saffron. [<OF safran <Sp. azafran <Arabic az-za'farān the saffron]