hyssop Hear it!

hyssop Definition

hys·sop (his′əp)

noun

    1. a fragrant herb (Hyssopus officinalis) of the mint family, usually with blue flowers, having leaves once used in folk medicine as a tonic, stimulant, etc.
    2. its flower
  2. ☆ any of several American plants of various families
  3. Bible a plant whose twigs were used for sprinkling in certain ancient Jewish rites

Etymology: ME isope < OE & OFr ysope < L hyssopus < Gr hyssōpos, hyssōpon < Heb ēzōbh

hyssop Usage Examples

Modifies a noun

  • branch: Hyssop branches were used to mark the doors posts, giving protection from the Angel of death and leading to freedom from slavery.

Noun used with modifier

  • anise: Anise hyssop Anise hyssop ( Agastache foeniculum ) Perennial North American native produces fantastic spikes of purple flowers, which are loved by bees.
hyssop Quotes

Behold, thoudesiresttruth intheinward parts: and inthe hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom. Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

—Bible (Old Testament)

Asperges me hyssopo, et mundabor; lavabis me, et super nivem dealbabor. You will sprinkle me with hyssop, and I shall be made clean; you will wash me and I shall be made whiter than snow.

—Bible (Vulgate)