star anise

noun

: the small brown star-shaped pungent fruit of a Chinese and Vietnamese tree (Illicium verum) that has a flavor similar to but stronger than anise and is dried and used whole or ground as a spice especially in Chinese cooking

Examples of star anise in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Once the wine starts bubbling, Oliver adds star anise and the rest of the wine bottle. Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Dec. 2024 The broth, which is simmered for hours, has a thinner consistency and is made with lemongrass, star anise, cloves, cinnamon, onions, and garlic. Christina Liao, Vogue, 27 Dec. 2024 The 2021 has aromas of cigar box, saddle leather, red cherry, and a touch of star anise. Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 12 Dec. 2024 The flavors feature nuances of fresh green garden herbs, citrus, and star anise. Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for star anise 

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of star anise was in 1838

Dictionary Entries Near star anise

Cite this Entry

“Star anise.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/star%20anise. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.

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