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

Adding antioxidant-rich herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, oregano and garlic can further reduce harmful high-heat byproducts in cooked meats and baked foods, according to multiple studies. —Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 17 Oct. 2025

Any of those Mediterranean herbs (oregano, rosemary) will likely rot away beneath the leaves. —Paul Cappiello, Louisville Courier Journal, 17 Oct. 2025

Other herbs, like thyme and oregano, would be a great addition. —Jasmine Smith, Southern Living, 11 Oct. 2025

In a skillet or in the oven, the beans simmer in a tangy tomato sauce doused in rich olive oil, with oregano, garlic, and red pepper flakes shining through. —Nina Moskowitz, Bon Appetit Magazine, 5 Oct. 2025

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