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

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

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

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