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

Drop in thyme, sage, and rosemary sprigs; bay leaf; and garlic. —Sheri Castle, Southern Living, 19 Aug. 2025

Notably some of the produce staples like callaloo, scotch bonnet and thyme are harvested from chef Stikxz’s family farm in Queens giving the dishes a distinctively local touch. —Rana Good, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2025

Essential Oils Essential oils, such as eucalyptus, peppermint (menthol), thyme, lavender, and tea tree, can also help manage flu and respiratory problems. —Ayesha Gulzar, Verywell Health, 29 July 2025

There’s enough room for olive, vinegar, salt, pepper, thyme, cumin and more. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 31 July 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