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

Sprinkle with more oregano and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). —Rebecca Firkser, Bon Appetit Magazine, 22 Mar. 2026

At Psito, chunks of potatoes are simmered in a lemon and oregano poaching liquid until the potatoes are tender and completely infused with these traditional flavors. —C.w. Cameron, AJC.com, 22 Mar. 2026

The seasoning blend on the pork chops contains brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt and pepper. —Robin Miller, AZCentral.com, 19 Mar. 2026

Add basil, oregano, fennel, parsley and red pepper flakes. —Gretchen McKay, Boston Herald, 18 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