rosemary
0 synonyms and 0 antonyms for rosemary, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A fragrant evergreen herb used widely in cooking and, historically, in perfume.
We haven't recorded synonyms for rosemary yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.
How to use rosemary
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin rōs marīnus, literally "dew of the sea" — later reshaped in English under the influence of the names "rose" and "Mary."
Full origin of rosemary →Frequently asked questions
What does “rosemary” mean?
The word “rosemary” means a fragrant evergreen herb used widely in cooking and, historically, in perfume. In plain terms, a piney, fragrant herb common in Mediterranean cooking.
How do you pronounce “rosemary”?
“Rosemary” is pronounced ROHZ-muh-ree (/ˈɹoʊzˌmɛəɹi/ in IPA).
How do you use “rosemary” in a sentence?
Here is “rosemary” used in a sentence: “She rubbed the lamb with garlic and rosemary before roasting it.”
What part of speech is “rosemary”?
“Rosemary” is a noun.
Where does the word “rosemary” come from?
The word “rosemary” comes from Latin. From Latin rōs marīnus, literally "dew of the sea" — later reshaped in English under the influence of the names "rose" and "Mary.".
Is “rosemary” a common word?
“Rosemary” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between rosemary and other cooking herbs like thyme?
Rosemary is a fragrant evergreen herb with needle-like leaves and a distinctive pine-like aroma, setting it apart from softer herbs like thyme or basil. It is especially associated with roasted meats, potatoes, and Mediterranean cooking, where its strong flavor holds up well to long cooking times.
What dishes commonly use rosemary?
Rosemary is widely used to flavor roasted meats such as lamb and chicken, roasted potatoes, breads, and Mediterranean-style dishes. Its robust, piney flavor means it is often used in smaller amounts than milder herbs.
Was rosemary historically used for anything besides cooking?
Yes, rosemary has historically been used in perfume-making in addition to its culinary uses. Its fragrant oils made it a valued ingredient in scented preparations long before it became a kitchen staple.