chive

noun

: a perennial plant (Allium schoenoprasum) related to the onion and having slender leaves used as a seasoning
also : its leaves
usually used in plural
compare garlic chive

Examples of chive in a Sentence

Do you want chives on your baked potato?
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 characteristic scent of onions and other alliums (like garlic, chives, leeks, and shallots) comes from sulfur compounds. Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 11 May 2025 Wild garlic is a member of the Liliaceae family, just like regular garlic, leek, onion, shallots, and chives. Christina Pérez, Vogue, 30 Apr. 2025 Herbs: Anise, basil, bay laurel, cardamom, chives, coriander, dill, lemon balm, oregano, rosemary, sage, savory, sweet marjoram, mint, tarragon and thyme. Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 Apr. 2025 When choosing the herbs for this recipe, look for soft herbs like basil, parsley, or chives. Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for chive

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin cepa onion

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Chive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chive. Accessed 19 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

chive

noun
: an herb related to the onion and having leaves used as a seasoning

More from Merriam-Webster on chive

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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