fennel

noun

fen·​nel ˈfe-nᵊl 

1

: a perennial Eurasian herb (Foeniculum vulgare) that has clusters of small yellow flowers and aromatic leaves and seeds and includes several cultivated forms: such as

a

: one (F. vulgare var. dulce) grown especially for its edible leaves and seeds that are used as a seasoning

b

: florence fennel

2

: the edible parts (such as the seeds and leaves) of fennel

Did you know?

A perennial aromatic herb of the parsley family, fennel is native to southern Europe and Asia Minor and cultivated in the US, Britain, and temperate areas of Eurasia. The blanched shoots are eaten as a vegetable. The greenish brown to yellowish brown oblong-oval seeds smell and taste similar to anise. The seeds and extracted oil are used for scenting soaps and perfumes and for flavoring candies, liqueurs, medicines, and foods, particularly pastries, sweet pickles, and fish.

Examples of fennel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Start with the big four: cinnamon or cassia, cloves, fennel seed, and star anise, then mix in something punchy like powdered ginger, white peppercorn, or even green or black pepper. —Sarah Jampel, Bon Appétit, 13 Dec. 2024

Chimney Rock’s 2021 Cab has aromas of black currant, red raspberry, and crushed violet petals with pleasantly grippy tannins and flavors of fennel frond, black raspberry, and a touch of finely ground black pepper in the finish. —Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 12 Dec. 2024

Infused with sea fennel and shea butter, this moisturizer is designed to soothe dryness and replenish hydration. —Nicol Natale, People.com, 8 Dec. 2024

In a small bowl, combine the basil, Parmesan, Asiago, garlic, thyme, oregano, fennel seeds and red pepper flakes. —Christine Rousselle, Fox News, 24 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English fenel, from Old English finugl, from Vulgar Latin *fenuculum, from Latin feniculum fennel, irregular diminutive of fenum hay

First Known Use

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

Phrases Containing fennel

• dog fennel
• Florence fennel

Kids Definition

fennel

noun

fen·​nel ˈfen-ᵊl 

: a garden plant related to the carrot that is grown for its fragrant seeds and needle-shaped leaflets

Medical Definition

fennel

noun

fen·​nel ˈfen-ᵊl 

: a perennial European herb (Foeniculum vulgare) of the carrot family (Umbelliferae) introduced into North America and cultivated for its aromatic seeds and its foliage