costmary

[kost-mair-ee, kawst-]

noun

plural

costmaries 

1. a composite plant, Chrysanthemum balsamita, that has silvery, fragrant leaves and is used in salads and as a flavoring.

costmary

/ ˈkɒstˌmɛərɪ /

noun

1. Also called: alecost. a herbaceous plant, Chrysanthemum balsamita, native to Asia. Its fragrant leaves were used as a seasoning and to flavour ale: family Asteraceae (composites)

Word History and Origins

Origin of costmary¹

1325–75; Middle English costmarie, equivalent to cost ( Old English cost costmary < Latin costum, costus a composite herb, Saussurea lappa < Greek kóstos ) + Marie (the Virgin) Mary

Word History and Origins

Origin of costmary¹

C15 costmarie , from Latin costum aromatic plant + Marie (the Virgin) Mary

Example Sentences

The plant costmary, which was formerly much used for flavoring ale.

From Project Gutenberg

The common perennial sweet-herbs are: Sage, lavender, peppermint, spearmint, hyssop, thyme, marjoram, balm, catnip, rosemary, horehound, fennel, lovage, winter savory, tansy, wormwood, costmary.

From Project Gutenberg