Main Entry: hys·sop

Pronunciation: \ˈhi-səp\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English ysop, from Old English ysope, from Latin hyssopus, from Greek hyssōpos, of Semitic origin; akin to Hebrew ēzōbh hyssop

Date: before 12th century

1 : a plant used in purificatory sprinkling rites by the ancient Hebrews
2 : a European mint (Hyssopus officinalis) that has highly aromatic and pungent leaves and is sometimes used as a potherb