oregano

noun

oreg·​a·​no ə-ˈre-gə-ˌnō How to pronounce oregano (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
They’re marinated in a flavorful mix of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and aromatic spices like oregano, marjoram, and smoked paprika. — Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Mar. 2025 There is also the Lasagna Verde pizza available, which mixes oregano, basil, mozzarella, pecorino and bechamel sauce. — Carlos Rico, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Mar. 2025 Meanwhile, place the toasted pumpkin seeds and oregano in the blender, along with 3 cups of the broth, and purée until completely smooth. — Angelica Stabile, Fox News, 3 Mar. 2025 Consider growing perennial herbs such as chives, oregano, and sage which will thrive nearly year-round in much of the South. — Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 25 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for oregano

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of oregano was in 1771

Rhymes for oregano

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oregano
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Cite this Entry

“Oregano.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oregano. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

oregano

noun
oreg·​a·​no ə-ˈreg-ə-ˌnō How to pronounce oregano (audio)
plural oreganos
: a bushy mint with leaves used as a seasoning and a source of a fragrant oil

More from Merriam-Webster on oregano

Nglish: Translation of oregano for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about oregano

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