thyme

noun

ˈtīm 

also

ˈthīm 

1

: any of a genus (Thymus) of Eurasian mints with small pungent aromatic leaves

especially : a Mediterranean garden herb (T. vulgaris)

2

: thyme leaves used as a seasoning

Examples of thyme in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Late spring, after threat of frost has passed Like many herbs, thyme leaves produce fragrant compounds that give plants a sharp taste and scent. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 28 June 2024

This tasting features Spain’s Gin Mare, created with Spanish olives, basil and thyme for a taste profile that’s more herbaceous and less juniper-forward than some popular American and English gins. —Chris Kelly, Washington Post, 21 June 2024

Fresh thyme delivers a strong herbal flavor, with floral notes similar to lavender and rosemary. —Robin Miller, The Arizona Republic, 29 Feb. 2024

The chicken is nestled back into the skillet, with the skin above the liquid line to maintain its crispiness, along with fresh sprigs of thyme, and cooked in the oven until tender. —Tribune News Service, Hartford Courant, 9 Jan. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French time, thime, from Latin thymum, from Greek thymon, probably from thyein to make a burnt offering, sacrifice; akin to Latin fumus smoke — more at fume

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing thyme

• lemon thyme

Kids Definition

thyme

noun

ˈtīm 

 also  ˈthīm

1

: any of a genus of Eurasian mints with small fragrant leaves

especially : one grown for use in seasoning food

2

: thyme leaves used as a seasoning

Medical Definition

thyme

noun

ˈtīm also ˈthīm

: any of a genus (Thymus) of mints with small pungent aromatic leaves

especially : a garden herb (T. vulgaris) used in seasoning and formerly in medicine especially as a stimulant and carminative