star anise
noun
Definition of star anise
: the small brown star-shaped pungent fruit of a Chinese and Vietnamese tree (Illicium verum) that has a flavor similar to but stronger than anise and is dried and used whole or ground as a spice especially in Chinese cooking
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First Known Use of star anise
1838
STAR ANISE Defined for English Language Learners
star anise
noun
Definition of star anise for English Language Learners
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: a small brown star-shaped fruit that is dried and used as a spice especially in Chinese cooking
Learn More about star anise
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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about star anise
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