anise

noun

an·​ise ˈa-nəs How to pronounce anise (audio)
 also  ə-ˈnēs
: a Eurasian annual herb (Pimpinella anisum) of the carrot family having carminative and aromatic seeds
also : aniseed

Examples of anise 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.
The wine features a robust blend of dark fruit, smoke, and anise. Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 29 Mar. 2025 Then to my nose, the peppermint and anise emerge, creating an aromatic quality that somehow avoids smelling like a candy cane (my initial fear). Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 21 Mar. 2025 Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon Family Estate Grown 2021 (St. Helena, Napa Valley) - Bright, deep purple; gorgeous aromas of black currant, myrtle, anise and violet. Tom Hyland, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025 The leather case is available in three colors: anise, ambar and chestnut, which are sold exclusively at the Hennessy space at Harrods. Hikmat Mohammed, WWD, 17 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for anise

Word History

Etymology

Middle English anis, from Anglo-French, from Latin anisum, from Greek annēson, anison

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Anise.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anise. Accessed 10 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

anise

noun
an·​ise ˈan-əs How to pronounce anise (audio)
: an herb that is related to the carrot and produces seeds with an aroma
also : aniseed

Medical Definition

anise

noun
an·​ise ˈan-əs How to pronounce anise (audio)
: an herb (Pimpinella anisum) of the family Umbelliferae having carminative and aromatic seeds
also : aniseed

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