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Meaning & use

marjoram

noun·Advanced

Last updated

UK/ˈmɑː.dʒər.əm/
US/ˈmɑːr.dʒɚ.əm/

Meaning

  1. noununcountable

    A fragrant herb with small, oval leaves and a sweet, slightly minty flavor, used in cooking.

    Grammar: Uncountable as a seasoning: a pinch of marjoram.

    Patterns

    • a pinch of marjoram
    • season something with marjoram

    Add a pinch of dried marjoram to the stew.

    She grows marjoram on the kitchen windowsill.

    The sausage was seasoned with marjoram and thyme.

Common combinations

dried marjoram
Dried marjoram is stronger than fresh.
fresh marjoram
Sprinkle fresh marjoram over the pizza.
pinch of marjoram
Add a pinch of marjoram at the end.
marjoram leaves
Strip the marjoram leaves from the stem.

Synonyms and how they differ

oregano
Oregano is a close relative that is stronger and spicier, and is the usual herb on pizza.
thyme
Thyme is a different herb with a more earthy, lemony flavor.
sage
Sage has a stronger, slightly bitter taste and soft gray leaves.

Word family

oregano noun
a related herb
herb noun
a plant used for flavoring
herbal adjective
made from or relating to herbs

Commonly confused: marjoram or oregano? marjoram or marjorie?

marjoram vs oregano

Oregano and marjoram look alike, but oregano tastes sharper and is sturdier in cooking.

marjoram vs marjorie

Marjorie is a girl's name. It sounds similar but is not the herb.

Practice

How does marjoram usually taste compared with oregano?

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