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

Glühwein is essentially red wine that’s been punched up with traditional warm spices like cinnamon, clove, and star anise, and may also include citrus, sugar, and vanilla. —Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 8 Nov. 2025

The spirit has strong notes of star anise and caraway, with a range of holiday spices. —Kelli Arseneau, jsonline.com, 22 Oct. 2025

For a finishing touch disperse cinnamon sticks, star anise, and mini pumpkins throughout the board. —Catharine Kaufman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 Oct. 2025

Full-bodied varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Zinfandel work great here, gently heated with orange slices, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise along with a touch of brandy or Cointreau and a bit of honey, agave, or maple syrup. —Essence, 29 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for star anise

• calanus
• johannes
• anas
• canis
• manis
• mannose
• stannous