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

Add zucchini, garlic, and thyme; cook, stirring often, until zucchini is bright green, about 2 minutes. —Jasmine Smith, Southern Living, 21 June 2025

An anti-inflammatory diet also includes healthy fats, such as olive oil and foods containing omega-3 fatty acids like fish as well as walnuts and flax, chia and basil seeds. Alliums — including garlic, onion, leeks and shallots — are flavorful plants that have multiple anti-inflammatory properties. —Jessica Dulong, CNN Money, 20 June 2025

Meanwhile, combine oil, garlic, anchovies, and pepper flakes in microwave-safe liquid measuring cup. —Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 16 June 2025

Carrot ribbon salad is the viral way to eat veggies The viral carrot ribbon salad is made with sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, sesame seeds, green onions, grated garlic, soy sauce and chili crisp oil. —Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 16 June 2025

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