thyme

noun

ˈtīm How to pronounce thyme (audio)
also
ˈthīm How to pronounce thyme (audio)
1
: any of a genus (Thymus) of Eurasian mints with small pungent aromatic leaves
especially : a Mediterranean garden herb (T. vulgaris)
2
: thyme leaves used as a seasoning

Examples of thyme in a Sentence

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.
Seasonal flavors include cranberry, rosemary, thyme, and sage. —Ana Gutierrez, Austin American-Statesman, 7 Nov. 2024 Fresh thyme: Another classic ingredient in French onion soup. —Elizabeth Nelson, Southern Living, 3 Nov. 2024 Garlic and thyme are used as the savory aromatics in the cream sauce. —Robin Miller, The Arizona Republic, 10 Oct. 2024 Rosemary and thyme are infused into the sauce milk, highlighting the nutmeg. —Kaila Yu, Forbes, 30 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for thyme 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French time, thime, from Latin thymum, from Greek thymon, probably from thyein to make a burnt offering, sacrifice; akin to Latin fumus smoke — more at fume

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of thyme was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing thyme

Dictionary Entries Near thyme

Thymallidae

thyme

thyme camphor

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Thyme.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thyme. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

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Kids Definition

thyme

noun
ˈtīm How to pronounce thyme (audio)
 also  ˈthīm
1
: any of a genus of Eurasian mints with small fragrant leaves
especially : one grown for use in seasoning food
2
: thyme leaves used as a seasoning

Medical Definition

thyme

noun
ˈtīm also ˈthīm
: any of a genus (Thymus) of mints with small pungent aromatic leaves
especially : a garden herb (T. vulgaris) used in seasoning and formerly in medicine especially as a stimulant and carminative

More from Merriam-Webster on thyme

Nglish: Translation of thyme for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about thyme

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