costmary

[ kost-mair-ee, kawst- ]

noun

, plural cost·mar·ies.

1. a composite plant, Chrysanthemum balsamita, that has silvery, fragrant leaves and is used in salads and as a flavoring.

costmary

/ ˈkɒstˌmɛərɪ /

noun

1. a herbaceous plant, Chrysanthemum balsamita, native to Asia. Its fragrant leaves were used as a seasoning and to flavour ale: family Asteraceae (composites) Also calledalecost

Word History and Origins

Origin of costmary¹

1325–75; Middle English costmarie, equivalent to cost ( Old English cost costmary < Latin costum, costus a composite herb, Saussurea lappa < Greek kóstos ) + Marie (the Virgin) Mary

Word History and Origins

Origin of costmary¹

C15 costmarie , from Latin costum aromatic plant + Marie (the Virgin) Mary