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

Sprawling communal tables adorned with floral arrangements allowed guests to mingle and connect as dinner service began with a stunning amuse-bouche of crispy nori with daikon tartare, maple vinaigrette, and hoja santa—an herb with a complex flavor reminiscent of licorice and anise. —Jesse Szewczyk, Bon Appetit Magazine, 24 Feb. 2026

High potency lactic acid deeply exfoliates dead surface cells while licorice brightens dark spots, and it’s clinically proven to immediately and significantly plump the look of fine lines and boost radiance in three minutes, per the brand. —Jamie Allison Sanders, InStyle, 23 Feb. 2026

The effects depend on the type and amount of licorice root. —Brandi Jones, Verywell Health, 23 Feb. 2026

It’s formulated with mulberry and licorice root extract to brighten the skin, and glycerin to keep it supple and moisturized. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 9 Feb. 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