oregano

noun

oreg·​a·​no ə-ˈre-gə-ˌnō 

1

: a bushy perennial mint (Origanum vulgare) with leaves that are used as a seasoning and a source of aromatic oil

called also origanum, wild marjoram

2

: any of several plants (genera Lippia and Coleus) other than oregano of the vervain or mint families

Examples of oregano in a Sentence

The recipe calls for a tablespoon of chopped oregano.

Recent Examples on the Web

There are distinct herbal notes of oregano and eucalyptus and a distinctive smokiness. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 4 Dec. 2024

This high-protein flatbread-of-sorts involves blending one cup of cottage cheese with two eggs, salt, and dried oregano into a batter. —Ashia Aubourg, Outside Online, 8 Nov. 2024

Bell's contains ground oregano and ground marjoram among other hefty herbs that hold up to the intensity of the oyster taste. —Catherine Jessee, Southern Living, 23 Nov. 2024

Culinary Herbs Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano used to be available only in summer. —Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

American Spanish orégano, from Spanish, wild marjoram, from Latin origanum — more at origanum

First Known Use

1771, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

oregano

noun

oreg·​a·​no ə-ˈreg-ə-ˌnō 

plural oreganos

: a bushy mint with leaves used as a seasoning and a source of a fragrant oil