epazote

noun

ep·​a·​zote ˈe-pə-ˌzōt How to pronounce epazote (audio)
: wormseed sense b
also : the fresh or dried pungent-smelling leaves of wormseed used especially in Mexican cooking

Examples of epazote in a Sentence

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.
Discard the epazote sprig and add the vinegar to the soup. — Christian Allaire, Vogue, 26 Nov. 2025 Native tomatoes, chile de árbol and epazote (a pungent herb) lift a pork tamal. — Elisabeth Malkin, New York Times, 23 Nov. 2023 Rare or specialty herbs, such as shiso, Thai basil, and epazote, that are not easily found in stores. — Erica Browne Grivas, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 July 2025 There’ll also be seasonal quesadillas with nasturtium and epazote, plus possibly ramps next spring. — Louisa Kung Liu Chu, Chicago Tribune, 31 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for epazote

Word History

Etymology

Mexican Spanish, from Nahuatl epazōtl

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of epazote was in 1848

Rhymes for epazote

See All Rhymes for epazote

Browse Nearby Words

épaulière
epazote
EPC
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Epazote.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/epazote. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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