thyme

American  

[tahym, thahym] / taɪm, θaɪm /

noun

1. any of numerous plants belonging to the genus Thymus, of the mint family, including the common garden herb T. vulgaris, a low subshrub having narrow, aromatic leaves used for seasoning.

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thyme British  

/ taɪm /

noun

1. any of various small shrubs of the temperate genus Thymus, having a strong mintlike odour, small leaves, and white, pink, or red flowers: family Lamiaceae (labiates)

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Other Word Forms

• thymy adjective

Etymology

Origin of thyme

1350–1400; Middle English < Latin thymum < Greek thýmon

Example Sentences

The mixture is seasoned with herbs, like thyme and parsley, and poured into a casserole dish.

From Salon • Feb. 20, 2026

Despite its potential, thyme extract has practical drawbacks that limit how it can be used.

From Science Daily • Jan. 17, 2026

Fold in winter herbs like tarragon, rosemary, or thyme, or add a swipe of really good mustard for heat and backbone.

From Salon • Dec. 16, 2025

"We also identified other herbs, such as thyme and oregano, that may activate TRPA1. But rosemary stood out for its potency and safety," said Rapp Reyes, co-lead author of the study.

From Science Daily • Dec. 7, 2025

The charred walls were hardly visible, camouflaged as they were by the spurge, brambles, and wild thyme that had taken root among the soot-blackened stones.

From "Inkheart" by Cornelia Funke