anise

noun

an·​ise ˈa-nəs 

also ə-ˈnēs

: a Eurasian annual herb (Pimpinella anisum) of the carrot family having carminative and aromatic seeds

also : aniseed

Examples of anise in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The 500-square-foot unit has been painted its signature anise green and outfitted with vintage furniture sourced by Guyot-Arnault. — Miles Socha, Footwear News, 12 Nov. 2026

Lemon myrtle has the highest citral content of any plant in the world, which is why lemon myrtle tea is so powerfully antiseptic, antibacterial, and antioxidant, while anise myrtle helps with stomach cramps and chest congestion. — Liam Freeman, Vogue, 11 Nov. 2026

Italian basil is sweet, fresh, and relatively mild, with a slightly peppery flavor and subtle minty or anise-like notes. — Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 24 Sep. 2026

Layers of sweet anise with a punchy bite of Dijon, along with the balanced acidity from the white wine, creates an intoxicating broth, the true star of the dish. — Claire Wadsworth, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English anis, from Anglo-French, from Latin anisum, from Greek annēson, anison

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing anise

• star anise

Rhymes for anise

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

Kids Definition

anise

noun

an·​ise ˈan-əs 

: an herb that is related to the carrot and produces seeds with an aroma

also : aniseed

Medical Definition

anise

noun

an·​ise ˈan-əs 

: an herb (Pimpinella anisum) of the family Apiaceae having carminative and aromatic seeds

also : aniseed