rosemary

¹

[rohz-mair-ee, -muh-ree]

noun

plural

rosemaries 

1. an evergreen shrub, Rosmarinus officinalis, of the mint family, native to the Mediterranean region, having leathery, narrow leaves and pale-blue, bell-shaped flowers, used as a seasoning and in perfumery and medicine: a traditional symbol of remembrance.

Rosemary

²

[rohz-mair-ee, -muh-ree]

noun

1. a female given name.

rosemary

/ ˈrəʊzmərɪ /

noun

1. an aromatic European shrub, Rosmarinus officinalis , widely cultivated for its grey-green evergreen leaves, which are used in cookery for flavouring and yield a fragrant oil used in the manufacture of perfumes: family Lamiaceae (labiates). It is the traditional flower of remembrance

Word History and Origins

Origin of rosemary¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English rose mary (by folk etymology, influenced by rose ¹ and the name Mary ), from Latin rōs “dew” + marīnus “marine,” or rōs maris “dew of the sea” (in English the final -s mistaken for plural sign)

Word History and Origins

Origin of rosemary¹

C15: earlier rosmarine , from Latin rōs dew + marīnus marine; modern form influenced by folk etymology, as if _rose ¹ + _Mary

Example Sentences

Visitors will encounter pollinator gardens alive with butterflies and hummingbirds, color-themed landscapes, and cascading water features, all designed to reflect the beauty of Southern California’s environment with scents of rosemary, jasmine and chaparral.

From Los Angeles Times

But the number of pests have increased too including the tiny, shiny rosemary beetle which has exploded in number this year.

From BBC

You can even freeze stock or broth with herbs already added — rosemary, thyme, a peppercorn or two — and drop it straight into the pot when it’s time to cook.

From Salon

The flowers were picked on Wednesday on the grounds of Windsor Castle and the surrounding estate - and included rosemary representing remembrance, oak for longevity and endurance, and bluebells for gratitude.

From BBC

Last year, 4 Eyes Bakery, based in Staveley near Chesterfield, won with its garlic and rosemary deep pan focaccia creation.

From BBC