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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Garnish with black pepper and more thyme. Makes 10 to 12 servings. Kelly Brant, Arkansas Online, 15 Apr. 2025 The gin base is infused with mountain berry tea then combined with lime, thyme and prosecco. Jillian Dara, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025 The aromatic, savory leaves add notes of menthol, eucalyptus, and pine to simmering sauces while releasing a heady scent similar to thyme and oregano. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 14 Apr. 2025 The leaves of others on the list, such as creeping thyme and creeping rosemary, are infused with a scent that permeates the garden over the entire season. Rita Pelczar, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for thyme

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

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Cite this Entry

“Thyme.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thyme. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.

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

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