Herb

Definition

Herb refers to any plant with leaves, seeds, or flowers that are used for flavoring, food, medicine, or perfume.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɜrb/
• Respelling: URB (with "URB" as in "curb")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hɜːb/
• Respelling: HERB (with "HERB" as in "herb")

In both dialects, "herb" places the primary stress on the entire syllable. The pronunciation differs between American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "URB" in American English and "HERB" in British English.

Etymology

Derived from Old French "herbe", from Latin "herba", meaning "green crop", "grass", or "herb".

Derivatives

• Herbal (adjective)
• Herbalist (noun)
• Herbaceous (adjective)
• Herbicide (noun)
• Herbivorous (adjective)

Synonyms

• Plant
• Botanical
• Shrub

Antonyms

• None

Usage

Herbs are commonly used in cooking to add flavor, in medicine for their therapeutic properties, and in various cultural and religious practices. They are often valued for their aromatic qualities and health benefits.

Related Terms

• Flora
• Greenery
• Botanic
• Foliage
• Vegetable

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Culinary Use: A plant or plant part valued for its flavor, used in cooking.
  • Example: Basil is a common herb used in Italian cuisine.

• Medicinal Use: A plant or plant part used for its medicinal properties.
  • Example: Ginseng is a well-known herb used in traditional medicine.

• Aromatic Use: A plant or plant part used for its aromatic properties.
  • Example: Lavender is an herb often used in aromatherapy.

Note: While "herb" typically refers to a plant used in cooking or medicine, it can also encompass a broader range of plants. The pronunciation differs between American and British English, with Americans typically dropping the "h" sound. Additionally, in a culinary context, "herb" might refer specifically to the leafy green parts of a plant, while a "spice" would come from other parts of the plant, like seeds, roots, and bark.