# thyme

/ˈθaɪm/ (US) · /tˈaɪm/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/thyme
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

a small plant with tiny leaves that people use as a herb to add flavor to food. It has a strong, pleasant smell and is common in Mediterranean cooking.

For teachers: a low-growing aromatic plant of the mint family, used as a culinary herb. Often used in its dried or fresh form to season meats, stews, and soups.

## Examples

- I added some fresh thyme to the roasted chicken.
- The recipe calls for a teaspoon of dried thyme to enhance the flavor of the vegetable soup.
- Traditional Mediterranean gardens often feature woody perennials like thyme and rosemary, which thrive in well-drained soil and intense sunlight while providing essential aromatics for local cuisine.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the herb in general; countable when referring to specific botanical varieties.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.