oregano

noun

oreg·​a·​no ə-ˈre-gə-ˌnō 

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

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

Between the garlic, oregano, cumin, and paprika, this weeknight dinner definitely isn’t lacking in flavor. — Emily Laurence Sardinha, Bon Appetit Magazine, 3 Oct. 2026

Stir together cilantro, parsley, shallot, garlic, Fresno pepper, vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. — Josh Miller, Southern Living, 26 Sep. 2026

Drizzle with olive oil and coat with nutritional yeast, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and oregano. — ABC News, 24 Sep. 2026

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

Rhymes for oregano

• adagio
• altiplano
• arapaho
• arapahoe
• fortissimo
• manifesto
• minangkabau
• ostinato
• pistachio
• politico
• portfolio
• presidio

Kids Definition

oregano

noun

oreg·​a·​no ə-ˈreg-ə-ˌnō 

plural oreganos

: a bushy mint with leaves used as a seasoning and a source of a fragrant oil