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Origanum

Origanum

1 7.7
A group of fragrant herbs like oregano and marjoram used in cooking and medicine
  • noun
  • /ˌɔrɪˈɡænəm/
  • Specialized
translation icon : orégano
  • The Origanum plant thrives in sunny gardens.
  • Origanum vulgare

Examples

  • Several species of Origanum are cultivated for their fragrant leaves.

  • The culinary herb oregano belongs to the Origanum genus.

  • Traditional medicine often uses extracts from plants in the Origanum genus.

  • I love using Origanum in my pasta dishes.

  • Origanum is often used to add flavor to Italian dishes, especially in Origanum pasta sauces.

  • In many Mediterranean recipes, Origanum is a key ingredient that enhances the dish's aroma.

  • The gardener recommended planting Origanum to attract beneficial insects and improve the landscape.

Compounds

Origanum dictamnus
  • Specialized
9.9

A small shrub from Crete with pink flowers and a strong smell

Origanum majorana
  • Specialized
8.3

A small herb with a mild sweet taste and pleasant smell used in cooking

Origanum vulgare
  • Specialized
5.3

A plant with strong, scented leaves used to season food

Surface Forms

Origanum singular
Origanums plural

Etymology

Origanum comes from the Greek word origanon, made from oros 'mountain' and a part meaning 'joy', so it originally meant 'mountain joy' for a sweet-smelling wild herb. The common herb oregano is in this group, and these fragrant plants often grow on hills, which helps explain the name.