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

Salt: Replace with herbs, spices, garlic, and onions. —Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 1 Jan. 2025

The result is a quick and easy noodle recipe that includes punchy, umami-rich pantry staples and 20 cloves of garlic. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 Dec. 2024

With amazing flavors from tender sautéed okra, sweet corn, Cajun spices, and buttery garlic breadcrumbs, this casserole is like a little taste of sunshine. —Symiah Dorsey, Southern Living, 27 Dec. 2024

In a glass measure, whisk together the vinegar, ⅓ cup olive oil, garlic, soy sauce and rosemary. —Susan Selasky, Detroit Free Press, 24 Dec. 2024

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