Licorice: meaning, definitions and examples

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licorice

 

[ ˈlɪkəˌrɪʃ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

food flavor

Licorice is a sweet, aromatic flavoring derived from the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant. It is commonly used in candies and herbal medicines due to its unique taste and potential health benefits.

Synonyms

anise, sweet root

Examples of usage

  • I love the taste of licorice candy.
  • Licorice root tea can help soothe a sore throat.
  • Some people find the flavor of licorice polarizing.
Context #2 | Noun

confectionery

Licorice can also refer to confections made from the extract of the licorice root, often chewy and flavored in various ways. These candies can come in different forms, such as ropes or pastilles.

Synonyms

licorice candy, licorice treat

Examples of usage

  • The store had a section dedicated to different licorice confections.
  • Black licorice is often found during Halloween.
  • I bought a bag of licorice ropes.

Translations

Translations of the word "licorice" in other languages:

🇵🇹 alcaçuz

🇮🇳 अदरक की मिठाई

🇩🇪 Lakritz

🇮🇩 akar manis

🇺🇦 солодка риса

🇵🇱 lukrecja

🇯🇵 リコリス

🇫🇷 réglisse

🇪🇸 regaliz

🇹🇷 meyan kökü

🇰🇷 감초

🇸🇦 عرق السوس

🇨🇿 lékořice

🇸🇰 lekorica

🇨🇳 甘草

🇸🇮 sladki koren

🇮🇸 lakkrís

🇰🇿 сары қант

🇬🇪 ლიკორისი

🇦🇿 şirin kök

🇲🇽 regaliz

Word origin

The word 'licorice' comes from the Middle English 'licorice' or 'licorice root', which derives from the Old French 'réglisse', and ultimately from the Latin 'liquiritia'. The Latin term is believed to come from the Greek 'glycyrrhiza', a combination of 'glykys' meaning 'sweet' and 'riza' meaning 'root'. This reflects the sweet flavor profile of licorice that has been appreciated since ancient times. Licorice root has been utilized for centuries in traditional medicine, especially in Chinese herbal practices, for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. The popularity of licorice extends into modern confections, where it has found a place in various candies and flavored products across many cultures.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,720, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.