licorice

noun

lic·​o·​rice ˈli-k(ə-)rish  -k(ə-)rəs 

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

Supplements that may increase blood pressure include licorice, bitter orange, guarana, Saint-John’s-wort, caffeine, and yohimbe. —Karen Berger, Verywell Health, 29 Jan. 2026

Plus, the soothing licorice root extract helps calm everything down, making this an ideal pick for anyone who wants to combat discoloration without compromising hydration. —Deanna Pai, Allure, 29 Jan. 2026

Hoja santa and fennel bring a subtle licorice perfume to a weightless spin on fideo verde, finished with avocado slices and a snow flurry of Parmesan. —Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 29 Jan. 2026

For best results, licorice extract is best used in a serum, where the concentration of active ingredients is typically higher. —Beatrice Zocchi, Vogue, 23 Jan. 2026

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

Phrases Containing licorice

• Indian licorice

Kids Definition

licorice

noun

lic·​o·​rice ˈlik(-ə)-rish  -rəs 

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

ˈlik(-ə)-rish  -rəs 

1

: a European leguminous plant of the genus Glycyrrhiza (G. glabra) with pinnate leaves and spikes of blue flowers

2

a

: glycyrrhiza sense 2

b

: an extract of glycyrrhiza commonly prepared in the form of a gummy or rubbery paste