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.
Sprinkle the remaining teaspoon of oregano over all, then garnish with the parsley, tomato, and a sprinkle of feta (if using). — Candy Hom, AJC.com, 26 Oct. 2026 Plant Italian oregano for a subtle sweetness or Greek oregano for extra spice. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 18 Oct. 2026 Remove the squash from the oven, then pour the tomato sauce around it and nestle in the oregano sprigs. — Carole Kotkin, Miami Herald, 15 Oct. 2026 Eco effort The landscape design at Canaves Oia Epitome showcases a breathtaking array of natural beauty and diversity, including fragrant herbs like rosemary, oregano, and centuries-old olive trees. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026 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

See All Rhymes for oregano

Browse Nearby Words

ore dressing
oregano
Oregon
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Cite this Entry

“Oregano.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oregano. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about oregano

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