marjoram: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, culinary, botanical
Quick answer
What does “marjoram” mean?
A perennial herb of the mint family, with aromatic leaves used as a culinary seasoning.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A perennial herb of the mint family, with aromatic leaves used as a culinary seasoning.
The dried leaves of this plant used as a herb; sometimes used metaphorically to denote something sweet, fragrant, or traditional.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Both refer to the same herb. Spelling is identical.
Connotations
Slightly more common in British cookery references, but widely recognized in both varieties.
Frequency
Low frequency in general discourse, but standard in culinary and gardening contexts in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “marjoram” in a Sentence
N + of + marjoram (e.g., a sprig of marjoram)V + marjoram (e.g., season with marjoram)Adj + marjoram (e.g., fragrant marjoram)Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in contexts of herb farming, spice trade, or food retail.
Academic
Used in botanical, culinary, or historical studies.
Everyday
Used in cooking, gardening, or recipe discussions.
Technical
Used in horticulture, taxonomy (Origanum majorana), and food science.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “marjoram”
- Misspelling as 'marioram' or 'majoram'. Confusing it with oregano. Using it as a verb or adjective.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they are different species within the same genus (Origanum). Marjoram (Origanum majorana) is sweeter and milder than oregano (Origanum vulgare).
Yes, but use about one-third the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. The flavour profile will be slightly different.
It is common in Mediterranean, particularly French and Italian, cooking. It pairs well with meats, stews, soups, tomato sauces, and vegetable dishes.
Wrap it in a damp paper towel, place it in a plastic bag, and store it in the refrigerator. It can also be frozen or dried for longer storage.
A perennial herb of the mint family, with aromatic leaves used as a culinary seasoning.
Marjoram is usually formal, culinary, botanical in register.
Marjoram: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmɑːdʒərəm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmɑːrdʒərəm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None specific to marjoram”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a MAJOR aroma coming from the kitchen – that's MARJORAM.
Conceptual Metaphor
MARJORAM IS SWEETNESS/FRAGRANCE (e.g., 'the sweet marjoram of her memory').
Practice
Quiz
Marjoram is most closely related to which of the following herbs?