thyme

noun

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.
Furthermore, when combined with other winter ingredients, like cranberry, thyme, rosemary, mint, cinnamon and spiced cider, tequila can add a lightness or depth to create the ultimate festive cocktail. Jillian Dara, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024 Before serving, sprinkle with additional fresh thyme. Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Dec. 2024 Thyme: The light, bright flavors of thyme lifts the sometimes overwhelming onion flavor. Ann Taylor Pittman, Southern Living, 30 Nov. 2024 More large-scale, high-quality human studies are needed to understand the true benefits of thyme as well as the appropriate dosage of thyme. Isabel Vasquez Rd Ldn, Health, 17 Oct. 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

Dictionary Entries Near thyme

Cite this Entry

“Thyme.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thyme. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!