NYT Dictionary
BITUMEN
/bɪˈtumən/NounVerbbi-TU-menbi-tu-men · 3 syllablesGrade 12
Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2026
Meaning
A sticky, black, highly viscous liquid or semi-solid form of petroleum, burning with a bright flame. It occurs as an abundant natural product in many places, as on the shores of the Dead and Caspian Seas. It is used in cements, in the construction of pavements, etc.; Mineral pitch.
Etymology
Origin: Middle English
From Middle English bithumen, bitumen, from Latin bitūmen. Doublet of bitume.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Jew's pitchbitumeJew’s limeJew’s pitchJew’s slimeslimebituminizealabasterasphaltblacktop
NYT Puzzle Appearances
Accepted in 1 recorded puzzle, including a pangram: