anise

noun

an·​ise ˈa-nəs 

also ə-ˈnēs

: a Eurasian annual herb (Pimpinella anisum) of the carrot family having carminative and aromatic seeds

also : aniseed

Examples of anise in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Basil’s unique anise flavor gives pizza, pasta sauces, salads, and even drinks a distinct fresh taste. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 26 June 2026

The bright green spirit is known for its scarcity and distinctive taste, with a peppery nose and notes of mint, anise and citrus. — Rachel Bernhard, jsonline.com, 29 Apr. 2026

This vibrant margarita is a vessel for spring herbs like lemon balm, anise hyssop, mint, and lemon verbena. — Ginger Crichton, Midwest Living, 2 July 2026

Every meal ends with a complimentary shot of chichaito, a strong, delicious blend of white rum, anise liqueur, and coffee beans. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English anis, from Anglo-French, from Latin anisum, from Greek annēson, anison

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing anise

• star anise

Rhymes for anise

• anas
• canis
• manis
• mannose
• stannous
• johannes

Kids Definition

anise

noun

an·​ise ˈan-əs 

: an herb that is related to the carrot and produces seeds with an aroma

also : aniseed

Medical Definition

anise

noun

an·​ise ˈan-əs 

: an herb (Pimpinella anisum) of the family Apiaceae having carminative and aromatic seeds

also : aniseed