star anise
noun
: 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
Examples of star anise in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Hink agrees, adding that items like star anise, cinnamon sticks, and citrus wheels add dimension, shape, and pops of color.
—
Joey Skladany, Southern Living, 19 Dec. 2025
Add a sprig of rosemary or a mint leaf for some holiday greenery, and try spices like star anise or a sprinkle of cinnamon for warm flavors.
—Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Dec. 2025
Garnish with cinnamon sticks, star anise pods and orange wheels.
—Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 13 Dec. 2025
Lightly stir for 4-5 minutes, then add green onions and star anise.
—Bethany Thayer, Freep.com, 6 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for star anise
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Joey Skladany, Southern Living, 19 Dec. 2025
Add a sprig of rosemary or a mint leaf for some holiday greenery, and try spices like star anise or a sprinkle of cinnamon for warm flavors.
—Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Dec. 2025
Garnish with cinnamon sticks, star anise pods and orange wheels.
—Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 13 Dec. 2025
Lightly stir for 4-5 minutes, then add green onions and star anise.
—Bethany Thayer, Freep.com, 6 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for star anise
Cite this Entry
“Star anise.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/star%20anise. Accessed 24 Dec. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share