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
From the M-W Editors
1838
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
-
: a small brown star-shaped fruit that is dried and used as a spice especially in Chinese cooking
Learn More about star anise
-
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about star anise
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up star anise? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!