Fennel Meaning and Definition
:
Fennel
Fennel
Pronunciation
/ˈfɛnəl/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A type of perennial herb and vegetable, originating from the Mediterranean region, characterized by its slender, feathery leaves and anise-flavored bulbs.
Examples
- The fresh fennel was used to add flavor to the pasta dish.
- Fennel is a popular ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine.
Synonyms
- Anise
- Sweet anise
Antonyms
- Hot
- Bitter
Etymology
The word “Fennel” comes from the Old English “finul”, which is derived from the Latin “foeniculum”, meaning “small leaf”.
Usage Notes
Fennel is often used in Mediterranean and Italian cooking, particularly in soups, salads, and as a garnish.
Cultural References
Fennel has been mentioned in various literary works, including Shakespeare’s “All’s Well That Ends Well” and in the popular book “The Good Witch of the West” by Joy Fielding.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Fennel and anise” – a phrase used to describe a mixture of herbs
Related Words or Phrases
- Herb
- Vegetable
- Spice
Collocations
- fennel seeds
- fennel bulb
- fennel leaves
Frequency of Use
Fennel is a moderately common term, particularly among foodies and cooking enthusiasts.
Common Misspellings
- Feanel
- Fenel
- Finel