sweet basil

noun

: a basil (Ocimum basilicum) with whitish or purple flowers that includes several cultivars (such as bush basil)
also : its dried or fresh leaves used especially as a seasoning

Examples of sweet basil in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In addition to sweet basil, there are many varieties of basil, including Thai, lemon, holy, opal, and spicy globe, and lemon basil, which offer exciting flavor differences. Sheryl Geerts, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 June 2026 Common sweet basil has a light and minty aroma, whereas Genovese basil has a more pungent fragrance, a combination of clove and anise with a hint of pepper. Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 5 June 2026 This calming blend of pure essential oils, including sweet orange, lavender, patchouli, peppermint, sweet basil, and chamomile, can be used in a diffuser or on a tissue to create a relaxing, calming effect. Health Editorial Team, Health, 14 Mar. 2025 Other standout treatments include the Alpine Muscle Relief massage, which helps weary bodies recover after an exerting day, and the Spirit of the Mountains, which incorporates massage and a warm herbal poultice of lemongrass, kaffir lime and sweet basil. Linnea Covington, Forbes, 7 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sweet basil

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1647, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sweet basil was circa 1647

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Cite this Entry

“Sweet basil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sweet%20basil. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

sweet basil

noun
: a mint that has clusters of whitish or purple flowers and leaves often used as a seasoning in cooking

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