oregano

noun

oreg·​a·​no ə-ˈre-gə-ˌnō 

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

This one layers crispy chicken, smoky applewood bacon, ultimate ranch sauce and mozzarella with parmesan oregano seasoning. —Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 20 Aug. 2025

In a 5- to 8-quart slow cooker, add the peppers, onion, garlic powder, oregano and red pepper and Parmesan rind (if using). —The New York Times News Service Syndicate, Denver Post, 16 July 2025

Add herbs like cilantro, thyme, or oregano for a more Southwestern vibe. —Jasmine Smith, Southern Living, 8 Aug. 2025

Some examples of the classics include: Rusty Nail: made with single malt scotch, rye, honey liqueur, peach, sesame paste and oregano. —Bahar Anooshahr, AZCentral.com, 31 July 2025

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

Rhymes for oregano

• adagio
• altiplano
• arapaho
• arapahoe
• manifesto
• medicago
• minangkabau
• ostinato
• pistachio
• politico
• portfolio
• presidio

Kids Definition

oregano

noun

oreg·​a·​no ə-ˈreg-ə-ˌnō 

plural oreganos

: a bushy mint with leaves used as a seasoning and a source of a fragrant oil