thyme

noun

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 Culinary Herbs Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano used to be available only in summer. Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Oct. 2024 It’s enriched with a blend of gardenia extract, rosewater, aloe vera, thyme, and even seaweed extract. Kat Romero, Rolling Stone, 10 Oct. 2024 Tell us a little bit more about at the end of that sear, butter, garlic, thyme, what was the flavor like to you? Bon Appétit, 9 Oct. 2024 Add herbs and garlic: Add garlic, thyme, and rosemary; cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Julia Levy, Southern Living, 8 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for thyme 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'thyme.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of thyme was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near thyme

Cite this Entry

“Thyme.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thyme. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

thyme

noun
ˈtīm How to pronounce thyme (audio)
 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

More from Merriam-Webster on thyme

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!