licorice

noun

lic·​o·​rice ˈli-k(ə-)rish How to pronounce licorice (audio) -k(ə-)rəs How to pronounce licorice (audio)
1
a
: the dried root of a European leguminous plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra) with pinnate leaves and spikes of blue flowers
also : an extract of this used especially in medicine, liquors, and confectionery
b
: a candy flavored with licorice or a substitute (such as anise)
2
: a plant yielding licorice
also : a related plant

Examples of licorice in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Mid palate flavors of maple syrup and black licorice mid palate. Tom Mullen, Forbes, 25 Feb. 2024 That’s just what’s on offer in most Spanish Grenache wines, which range from stone and citrus fruit to licorice and spices. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Nov. 2023 Firm tannins and fresh acidity and mid palate flavors of licorice, cocoa, red cherries. Tom Mullen, Forbes, 25 Feb. 2024 Carrots: Adds mild sweetness and color. Parsnips: A light licorice flavor. Marianne Williams, Southern Living, 13 Dec. 2023 The licorice extract does help with some hyperpigmentation, but the main properties of this serum work to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and texture, leaving you with a smoother and more radiant complexion. Madison Yauger, Peoplemag, 14 June 2023 Ruby Port Ruby Ports are deep red to violet in color, with full texture and flavors of blackberry, cassis, black cherry, and notes of licorice, clove, and anise. Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 29 Dec. 2023 With the inclusion of licorice, lemongrass, and aloe, the luxe serum also provides a lasting boost of hydration, evens out the look of hyperpigmentation, and revives suppleness for an overall youthful-looking glow. Jessie Quinn, Peoplemag, 30 Nov. 2023 When workers at a dollar store called 911, her arms were seized with heat cramps and her skin was as red as licorice. Jack Healy, New York Times, 16 July 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'licorice.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English licorice, from Anglo-French licoris, from Late Latin liquiritia, alteration of Latin glycyrrhiza, from Greek glykyrrhiza, from glykys sweet + rhiza root — more at dulcet, root

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of licorice was in the 13th century

Dictionary Entries Near licorice

Cite this Entry

“Licorice.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/licorice. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

licorice

noun
lic·​o·​rice ˈlik(-ə)-rish How to pronounce licorice (audio) -rəs How to pronounce licorice (audio)
1
a
: a European plant of the legume family with spikes of blue flowers
b
: the dried root of licorice
also : a preparation made from the root
2
: a candy flavored with licorice or a substitute (as anise)
Etymology

Middle English licorice "licorice," from early French licoris (same meaning), from Latin liquiritia (same meaning), derived from Greek glykyrrhiza, literally, "sweet root"

Medical Definition

licorice

noun
lic·​o·​rice
variants or chiefly British liquorice
1
: a European leguminous plant of the genus Glycyrrhiza (G. glabra) with pinnate leaves and spikes of blue flowers
2
b
: an extract of glycyrrhiza commonly prepared in the form of a gummy or rubbery paste

More from Merriam-Webster on licorice

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