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

Because collard greens are often prepared with butter, salt, and other high-fat cooking oils, consider sautéing them in olive oil with garlic, onions, broth, and low-sodium seasonings to retain their flavor without overriding their nutritional value. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 13 Mar. 2026

Aside from the clam chowder, Captain Paker’s Pub offers a wide variety of other dishes, including a prime rib entrée and a garlic-herb roasted half chicken, as well as a long list of burgers and sandwiches. —The Providence Journal, 13 Mar. 2026

Seasoned beef, lamb or chicken wrapped in soft pita with a slathering of garlic sauce. —Susan Selasky, Freep.com, 13 Mar. 2026

Patri offers The Grand Thali, a unique experience allowing a group to sample two starters alongside 26 authentic Indian street-food dishes, with rice and garlic naan. —The Week Uk, TheWeek, 12 Mar. 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