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

In this recipe, greens get a splash of absinthe for a strong anise flavor, then the oysters are broiled to a light golden brown. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 3 June 2026

The rum is flavored with spices like cardamom, vanilla bean, cinnamon, rose hip, anise, lemon peel, orange peel, and allspice, which are sourced from the nearby North Truro Atlantic Spice Company. —Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 29 May 2026

Consider late-blooming native plants such as asters, goldenrod, ironweed, Joe Pye weed, and sneezeweed, as well as some non-natives including tall sedums, dahlias, toad lilies, zinnias, Bolivian verbena, reblooming roses and anise hyssop. —Beth Botts, Chicago Tribune, 23 May 2026

The palate is bold and energetic, with flavors of raw sugar cane, citrus oils, green banana, anise, saline minerality, and peppery spice. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 17 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