anise

noun

an·​ise ˈa-nəs 

 also  ə-ˈnēs

: a Eurasian annual herb (Pimpinella anisum) of the carrot family having carminative and aromatic seeds

also : aniseed

Examples of anise in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Arak, a traditional Levantine spirit with flavors of anise and licorice, is prevalent in the cocktails too, while the wines lean toward the natural. —Tori Latham, Robb Report, 30 Sep. 2024

Season: Once the tripe has been prepared for cooking, its mild flavor can be enhanced with seasonings like anise, caraway, and cardamom. —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 29 Sep. 2024

Or, any one of Vecino’s nonalcoholic options, such as the — dairy-free — milky matcha horchata or a sweet hibiscus tea spiced with anise and ginger. —Lyndsay C. Green, Detroit Free Press, 31 July 2024

Some of the best plants to grow near milkweed for aphid control are marigolds, alliums, nasturtiums, dill, catnip, and anise. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English anis, from Anglo-French, from Latin anisum, from Greek annēson, anison

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing anise

• star anise

Kids Definition

anise

noun

an·​ise ˈan-əs 

: an herb that is related to the carrot and produces seeds with an aroma

also : aniseed

Medical Definition

anise

noun

an·​ise ˈan-əs 

: an herb (Pimpinella anisum) of the family Umbelliferae having carminative and aromatic seeds

also : aniseed