garlic

noun

gar·​lic ˈgär-lik 

1

: a European allium (Allium sativum) widely cultivated for its pungent compound bulbs much used in cookery

broadly : allium

2

: a bulb of garlic

garlicky

ˈgär-li-kē 

adjective

Examples of garlic in a Sentence

The recipe calls for two cloves of garlic, minced.

a pasta dish flavored with basil and garlic

Recent Examples on the Web

Return the meat to the pot and add carrots, garlic and bouquet garni. —Gretchen McKay, Boston Herald, 7 Jan. 2026

Layered in butter, cream, garlic, Parmesan and green spinach that some versions of its origin story say represents the man’s vast fortune, it was first conceived in New Orleans’ Antoine’s Restaurant in 1899, where a shortage of escargot necessitated some creative moves from chef Jules Alciatore. —Amy Drew Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 7 Jan. 2026

Enjoy the taste and smell of fresh bread with this potato loaf seasoned with savory thyme and garlic. —Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 7 Jan. 2026

Stir in the remaining whole beans, the corn, corn chips, rice, egg, onion, salsa, chipotle peppers, cumin, and garlic. —Holly Riordan, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English garlek, from Old English gārlēac, from gār spear + lēac leek — more at gore

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing garlic

• elephant garlic
• garlic bread
• garlic chive
• garlic press
• garlic salt

Kids Definition

garlic

noun

gar·​lic ˈgär-lik 

: a European herb related to onion and grown for its bulbs that have a strong smell and taste and are used to flavor foods

also : one of the bulbs

garlicky

-li-kē 

adjective

Medical Definition

garlic

noun

gar·​lic ˈgär-lik 

: a European bulbous herb of the genus Allium (A. sativum) widely cultivated for its pungent compound bulbs much used in cookery

also : one of the bulbs