Herbs Meaning and Definition
Herbs
Pronunciation
/hərz/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A plant used for its flavoring, seasoning, or medicinal properties, typically growing as a leafy green herb plant.
Examples
- The chef added fresh herbs to the salad.
- Herbs are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Synonyms
- Sage
- Thyme
Antonyms
- Vegetables
- Fruits
Etymology
The word “Herbs” comes from the Old French “herbe,” meaning “grass” or “herb,” which is derived from the Latin “herba,” also meaning “grass” or “herb.”
Usage Notes
When referring to herbs, the term is often used to describe the leaves of the plant, such as basil or mint, rather than the roots or flowers.
Cultural References
In many cultures, herbs are considered sacred or have spiritual significance. For example, in some African cultures, herbs are believed to have healing properties.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “To live off the herbs” means to live off one’s savings or to be frugal.
Related Words or Phrases
- Herbivore
- Herbalism
Collocations
- Herbs and spices
- Fresh herbs
Frequency of Use
The frequency of use of the word “Herbs” is relatively high in cooking and culinary contexts, but can vary depending on the region and cultural background.
Common Misspellings
- Herb’s
- Herbe