anise

noun

an·​ise ˈa-nəs How to pronounce anise (audio)
also ə-ˈnēs
: a Eurasian annual herb (Pimpinella anisum) of the carrot family having carminative and aromatic seeds
also : aniseed

Examples of anise in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The palate is bold and energetic, with flavors of raw sugar cane, citrus oils, green banana, anise, saline minerality, and peppery spice. Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 17 May 2026 Florida anise is a great choice. Lauren David, Southern Living, 16 May 2026 The anise flavor really seals the deal on this recipe, along with the pinch of salt. Midwest Living, 14 May 2026 Anise Hyssop Add a licorice flavor to your tea with the leaves of anise hyssop (Agastache foeniculum). Sheryl Geerts, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for anise

Word History

Etymology

Middle English anis, from Anglo-French, from Latin anisum, from Greek annēson, anison

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of anise was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Anise.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anise. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

anise

noun
an·​ise ˈan-əs How to pronounce anise (audio)
: an herb that is related to the carrot and produces seeds with an aroma
also : aniseed

Medical Definition

anise

noun
an·​ise ˈan-əs How to pronounce anise (audio)
: an herb (Pimpinella anisum) of the family Apiaceae having carminative and aromatic seeds
also : aniseed

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