garlic

noun

gar·​lic ˈgär-lik 

1

: a European allium (Allium sativum) widely cultivated for its pungent compound bulbs much used in cookery

broadly : allium

2

: a bulb of garlic

garlicky

ˈgär-li-kē 

adjective

Examples of garlic in a Sentence

The recipe calls for two cloves of garlic, minced.

a pasta dish flavored with basil and garlic

Recent Examples on the Web

Make the gremolata: In a small bowl, stir together the cutting celery, lemon zest, Parmesan and garlic. —Peter Burke, Fox News, 14 Dec. 2024

Take caution if using raw garlic topically, as garlic can burn the skin and lead to other issues, such as skin inflammation. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 10 Dec. 2024

Once the garlic starts to brown, add about 2 ounces of butter. —Kathryn Gregory, The Courier-Journal, 9 Dec. 2024

Onion, bell pepper, and fresh garlic keeps things punchy, fresh, and flavorful. —Catherine Jessee, Southern Living, 7 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English garlek, from Old English gārlēac, from gār spear + lēac leek — more at gore

First Known Use

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

Phrases Containing garlic

• elephant garlic
• garlic bread
• garlic chive
• garlic press
• garlic salt

Kids Definition

garlic

noun

gar·​lic ˈgär-lik 

: a European herb related to onion and grown for its bulbs that have a strong smell and taste and are used to flavor foods

also : one of the bulbs

garlicky

-li-kē 

adjective

Medical Definition

garlic

noun

gar·​lic ˈgär-lik 

: a European bulbous herb of the genus Allium (A. sativum) widely cultivated for its pungent compound bulbs much used in cookery

also : one of the bulbs