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

Sprinkle evenly with thyme, rosemary, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper. —Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 4 July 2025

Some, like sage, thyme, and lavender, are perennials that take months to germinate and establish. —Erica Browne Grivas, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 July 2025

Woody herbs such as rosemary and thyme add a layer of flavor to roasted meats and other vegetables as well as to soups, stews and stocks. —Carolynn Carreño, Los Angeles Times, 22 June 2025

Add stock and 1 tablespoon of the thyme; bring to a simmer over medium. —Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 15 June 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