garlic

noun

gar·​lic ˈgär-lik 

1

: a European allium (Allium sativum) widely cultivated for its pungent compound bulbs much used in cookery

broadly : allium

2

: a bulb of garlic

garlicky

ˈgär-li-kē 

adjective

Examples of garlic in a Sentence

The recipe calls for two cloves of garlic, minced.

a pasta dish flavored with basil and garlic

Recent Examples on the Web

And then Parmesan and garlic, which are two other solid ingredients that are going to form this nice base in between the crust and the juicy fruit that goes on top of it. — Bon Appétit, Bon Appetit Magazine, 9 July 2026

In a mixing bowl, whisk the remaining garlic powder, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. — ABC News, 9 July 2026

The vegetation takes center stage over the buildings, and every possible outdoor route has the scent of jasmine, honeysuckle, and wild garlic. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 July 2026

This butternut squash pasta is pure comfort, with roasted squash, garlic, and shallots blended into a creamy, smooth sauce. — Jenna Sims, Southern Living, 8 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English garlek, from Old English gārlēac, from gār spear + lēac leek — more at gore

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing garlic

• elephant garlic
• garlic bread
• garlic chive
• garlic press
• garlic salt

Kids Definition

garlic

noun

gar·​lic ˈgär-lik 

: a European herb related to onion and grown for its bulbs that have a strong smell and taste and are used to flavor foods

also : one of the bulbs

garlicky

-li-kē 

adjective

Medical Definition

garlic

noun

gar·​lic ˈgär-lik 

: a European bulbous herb of the genus Allium (A. sativum) widely cultivated for its pungent compound bulbs much used in cookery

also : one of the bulbs