hyssop

noun

hys·​sop ˈhi-səp 

1

: a plant used in purificatory sprinkling rites by the ancient Hebrews

2

: a European mint (Hyssopus officinalis) that has highly aromatic and pungent leaves and is sometimes used as a potherb

Examples of hyssop in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Some plants known to attract pest predators include dill, parsley, hyssop and mints. —Dawn Pettinelli, Hartford Courant, 27 July 2024

Non-natives include anise hyssop (Agastache foeniculum), lavender (Lavandula), oregano (Origanum), ornamental sage (Salvia nemorosa and hybrids), and culinary mints (Mentha). —Miri Talabac, Baltimore Sun, 20 June 2024

Its pale green color is the natural result of steeping lemon balm and hyssop in the spirit, and it’s bottled at a bracing 130 proof. —Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 8 Mar. 2024

But a toasted slice of hyssop focaccia smeared with more of that eerily-convincing not-ricotta and hot honey was chewy and airy, just like a good focaccia should be. —Carina Finn, Bon Appétit, 27 Feb. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English ysop, from Old English ysope, from Latin hyssopus, from Greek hyssōpos, of Semitic origin; akin to Hebrew ēzōbh hyssop

First Known Use

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

Medical Definition

hyssop

noun

hys·​sop ˈhis-əp 

: a European mint (Hyssopus officinalis) having highly aromatic and pungent leaves that have been used to make a tea and as a stimulant and to relieve respiratory symptoms