Herb

/hɜːrb/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A plant or plant part valued for its medicinal, savory, or aromatic qualities.
Basil is a popular herb used in many Italian dishes.
A non-woody plant that is typically small and has leaves, flowers, or stems that are used for seasoning or medicinal purposes.
She added fresh oregano, an herb known for its distinct flavor, to the sauce.
Any plant that is used for flavoring, food, medicine, or perfume.
Chamomile is an herb often used as a calming tea.
A plant that lacks a permanent woody stem and dies down to the ground after the growing season.
Gardeners often prefer to grow herbs in pots for easy access while cooking.
In traditional medicine, any part of a plant used for therapeutic purposes.
Many people turn to herbal remedies, relying on herbs for holistic healing.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old French 'erbe', from Latin 'herba'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

herb garden
A garden where herbs are grown.
herbivore
An animal that primarily eats plants.
herbaceous plant
A plant that has non-woody stems.

Related Words

botany
The scientific study of plants.
spice
A substance made from a plant used to flavor food.
medicinal
Related to the treatment of illness.

Slang Meanings

A term for marijuana.
He rolls his own herb for the weekend.
A person who is seen as nerdy or awkward.
That guy is such a herb; he never joins in on anything fun.