hyssop

[ his-uhp ]

noun

1. any of several aromatic herbs belonging to the genus Hyssopus, of the mint family, especially H. officinalis, native to Europe, having clusters of small blue flowers.
2. any of several related or similar plants, especially of the genera Agastache or Gratiola.
3. Bible. a plant, perhaps the origan, whose twigs were used in ceremonial sprinkling.

hyssop

/ ˈhɪsəp /

noun

1. a widely cultivated Asian plant, Hyssopus officinalis, with spikes of small blue flowers and aromatic leaves, used as a condiment and in perfumery and folk medicine: family Lamiaceae (labiates)
2. any of several similar or related plants such as the hedge hyssop
3. a Biblical plant, used for sprinkling in the ritual practices of the Hebrews

Word History and Origins

Origin of hyssop¹

First recorded before 900; Middle English, Old English ysope, from Late Latin ysōpus, for Latin hyssōpus, from Greek hýssōpos, from Semitic (compare Hebrew ēzōbh ); conformed to Latin or Greek from the mid-16th century

Word History and Origins

Origin of hyssop¹

Old English ysope, from Latin hyssōpus, from Greek hussōpos, of Semitic origin; compare Hebrew ēzōv

Example Sentences

There was set there a vessel full of vinegar: so they put a sponge full of the vinegar upon hyssop, and brought it to his mouth.

From Project Gutenberg

If she be of full habit of body open a vein, after preparing her with syrup of betony, calamint, hyssop and feverfew.

From Project Gutenberg

A decoction made of herbs, muster-wort, used as you did the decoction of hyssop, works the effect.

From Project Gutenberg

Four broad paths were divided by many beds bordered by thyme, lavender, wild thyme, hyssop and other fragrant plants.

From Project Gutenberg

It must be killed on the fourteenth of the month Abib as the sun is setting, and the blood must be sprinkled with hyssop.

From Project Gutenberg