thyme

noun

ˈtīm 

also

ˈthīm 

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

In younger wines, expect fresher herbaceous qualities like oregano and thyme, with a slight hint of spice, including clove or vanilla from oak aging. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2025

Season with additional salt to taste; garnish with fresh thyme leaves. —Jasmine Smith, Southern Living, 16 Feb. 2025

Lobster Pappardelle made with a 1.25-lb lazy lobster, English peas, fresh pappardelle pasta and sherry thyme cream is also available for $45. —Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 11 Feb. 2025

Add 2 cups of chicken broth and the thyme, and simmer until vegetables are tender on medium low. —Contributing Writer, Orange County Register, 9 Feb. 2025

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

Phrases Containing thyme

• lemon thyme

Rhymes for thyme

• chime
• chyme
• climb
• clime
• crime
• dime
• grime
• lime
• lyme
• mime
• prime
• rhyme

Kids Definition

thyme

noun

ˈtīm 

 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