herb
UK: hɜːb | US: ɜːrb
n. a plant or part of a plant used for food, medicine, or fragrance
n. (slang) marijuana (colloquial usage)
The word "herb" traces back to Latin herba, meaning "grass, green crops, or plants." It entered Old French as herbe before being adopted into Middle English. The silent "h" in American English reflects the French pronunciation influence, while British English retains the aspirated "h." Historically, it referred broadly to useful plants (medicinal, culinary), later narrowing to aromatic or medicinal plants. The slang meaning ("marijuana") emerged in 20th-century American English, leveraging the plant's association with natural remedies.
Basil and thyme are common herbs used in Italian cooking.
She grows medicinal herbs like chamomile in her garden.
(US) "Herb" is often pronounced with a silent "h."
The ancient Greeks studied herbs for their healing properties.
(Slang) He was caught with a bag of herb in his pocket.