oregano

noun

oreg·​a·​no ə-ˈre-gə-ˌnō 

1

: a bushy perennial mint (Origanum vulgare) with leaves that are used as a seasoning and a source of aromatic oil

called also origanum, wild marjoram

2

: any of several plants (genera Lippia and Coleus) other than oregano of the vervain or mint families

Examples of oregano in a Sentence

The recipe calls for a tablespoon of chopped oregano.

Recent Examples on the Web

Brought to life with Greek Seasoning, made with oregano, garlic, cinnamon, peppermint, dill, nutmeg, red pepper, and chives. —The Bon Appétit Staff, Bon Appetit Magazine, 3 Apr. 2026

In containers, plant oregano as a spiller along the edges, with an upright rosemary variety as a centerpiece. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 2 Apr. 2026

Keep in mind that oregano is more cold-hardy than rosemary, which is often grown as an annual in USDA Zones 7 and colder. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Apr. 2026

Clove had the highest antioxidant capacity, followed by peppermint, allspice, cinnamon, oregano, thyme, sage, rosemary, saffron, and tarragon. —Merve Ceylan, Health, 31 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

American Spanish orégano, from Spanish, wild marjoram, from Latin origanum — more at origanum

First Known Use

1771, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for oregano

• adagio
• altiplano
• arapaho
• arapahoe
• manifesto
• medicago
• minangkabau
• ostinato
• pistachio
• politico
• portfolio
• presidio

Kids Definition

oregano

noun

oreg·​a·​no ə-ˈreg-ə-ˌnō 

plural oreganos

: a bushy mint with leaves used as a seasoning and a source of a fragrant oil