oregano

noun

oreg·​a·​no ə-ˈre-gə-ˌnō How to pronounce oregano (audio)
1
: a bushy perennial mint (Origanum vulgare) with leaves that are used as a seasoning and a source of aromatic oil

called also origanum, wild marjoram

2
: any of several plants (genera Lippia and Coleus) other than oregano of the vervain or mint families

Examples of oregano in a Sentence

The recipe calls for a tablespoon of chopped oregano.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Culinary Herbs Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano used to be available only in summer. Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Oct. 2024 In the mortar, grind together coarse sea salt and pepper, then garlic, parsley leaves, and oregano leaves. Alyson Sheppard, Robb Report, 2 Nov. 2024 In a large bowl, whisk egg whites with ½ teaspoon garlic powder and ½ teaspoon oregano until combined. Bethany Thayer, Detroit Free Press, 15 Sep. 2024 Stir in cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika; cook until fragrant, 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly. Ann Taylor Pittman, Southern Living, 12 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for oregano 

Word History

Etymology

American Spanish orégano, from Spanish, wild marjoram, from Latin origanum — more at origanum

First Known Use

1771, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of oregano was in 1771

Dictionary Entries Near oregano

Cite this Entry

“Oregano.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oregano. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

oregano

noun
oreg·​a·​no ə-ˈreg-ə-ˌnō How to pronounce oregano (audio)
plural oreganos
: a bushy mint with leaves used as a seasoning and a source of a fragrant oil

More from Merriam-Webster on oregano

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