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A2 noun #7,500 most common 11 min read

tomilho

Top 7,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips tomilho in 30 Seconds

Explanation tomilho in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that 'tomilho' means 'thyme' and is a type of food seasoning. You might see it on a shopping list or a simple menu. It is important to remember it is 'o tomilho' (masculine). You can use it in very simple sentences like 'Eu gosto de tomilho' (I like thyme) or 'O tomilho é verde' (The thyme is green). At this stage, don't worry about different varieties, just focus on identifying the word when you see it in a supermarket or a basic recipe. It is one of the 'ervas' (herbs) you will encounter early on. Practice saying the word to get used to the 'lh' sound, which is new for most English speakers.

At the A2 level, you should be able to use 'tomilho' in the context of cooking and shopping. You can describe how you use it: 'Eu uso tomilho para temperar o frango' (I use thyme to season the chicken). You should also know the difference between 'tomilho fresco' (fresh) and 'tomilho seco' (dried). You might hear it in simple instructions like 'Ponha um pouco de tomilho' (Put a little thyme). You are starting to understand that 'tomilho' is part of a larger group called 'ervas aromáticas'. You should be able to ask for it at a market: 'Pode dar-me um molho de tomilho, por favor?' (Can you give me a bunch of thyme, please?).

At the B1 level, you can discuss 'tomilho' in more detail, including its growth and medicinal uses. You might explain why you prefer thyme over other herbs: 'Prefiro o tomilho porque tem um sabor mais terroso que o alecrim' (I prefer thyme because it has a more earthy flavor than rosemary). You can understand recipes that involve more complex steps, like 'deixe o tomilho a infundir no azeite' (let the thyme infuse in the olive oil). You are also becoming aware of regional varieties like 'tomilho-limão'. You can use the word in the context of gardening, discussing how it needs 'sol pleno' (full sun) and 'solo bem drenado' (well-drained soil).

At the B2 level, you use 'tomilho' fluently in various contexts. You can follow complex cooking shows or read culinary articles where 'tomilho' is discussed as a component of a 'bouquet garni' or in 'confit' preparations. You can discuss the nuances of its flavor: 'O tomilho acrescenta uma nota de fundo que equilibra a gordura da carne' (Thyme adds a background note that balances the fat of the meat). You are comfortable with idiomatic or more technical uses, such as 'óleo essencial de tomilho' in aromatherapy. You can also understand literary descriptions where 'tomilho' is used to set a scene in the Portuguese countryside.

At the C1 level, 'tomilho' is a word you use with precision and stylistic awareness. You might use it in a professional culinary context or a scientific discussion about Mediterranean flora. You understand the historical and cultural significance of the herb in the Iberian Peninsula. You can distinguish between various species of the 'Thymus' genus in Portuguese, such as 'tomilho-vulgar' versus 'tomilho-serpão'. Your pronunciation of the 'lh' is perfect, and you can use the word in complex metaphorical contexts if they arise in literature. You can discuss the chemical properties like 'timol' (thymol) found in the herb.

At the C2 level, you have a near-native command of the word 'tomilho'. You can appreciate the subtle wordplay or historical etymology of the word (from the Greek 'thymon'). You can speak authoritatively about its role in traditional Portuguese medicine ('medicina popular') and its evolution in 'cozinha de autor' (modern gourmet cuisine). You can write or speak about 'tomilho' with varying registers, from a rustic, folk-oriented tone to a highly academic or technical one, without any hesitation. You might even know obscure regional names or folk songs that mention the herb.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

tomilho in 30 Seconds

Tomilho means thyme, a common aromatic herb used in Portuguese cooking.
It is a masculine noun (o tomilho) and is used for seasoning meat and fish.
It comes in fresh (fresco) and dried (seco) forms and has medicinal uses.
The pronunciation features the 'lh' sound, similar to 'million'.

The word tomilho refers to one of the most foundational herbs in the Mediterranean and Portuguese-speaking culinary world: thyme. Botanically known as Thymus vulgaris, tomilho is a woody, perennial herb that has been a staple in European kitchens for millennia. In the context of Portuguese culture, tomilho is not just a plant; it is a sensory bridge to the countryside, evoking the dry, sun-drenched hills of the Alentejo or the rugged landscapes of the interior. When you use the word tomilho, you are usually discussing cooking, gardening, or natural medicine. It is a masculine noun, preceded by the article 'o'.

Culinary Context: In Portuguese gastronomy, tomilho is frequently used to season meats, especially lamb and poultry. It is a key component of 'ervas da Provence' (herbs de Provence) which, while French in name, is widely used in Portuguese gourmet cooking. It is also essential for flavoring roasted vegetables and slow-cooked stews like 'ensopados'.

O segredo deste assado é o ramo de tomilho fresco que colocamos no forno.

Garden and Nature: When visiting a 'horta' (vegetable garden) in Portugal, you will almost certainly find tomilho. It is praised for its resilience against drought, making it an ideal plant for the Portuguese climate. Gardeners often distinguish between 'tomilho-comum' and 'tomilho-limão' (lemon thyme), the latter having a distinct citrus scent.

Historically, tomilho was used by ancient civilizations for its antiseptic properties. In modern Portugal, while its primary use is culinary, many people still recognize it for its medicinal potential, particularly in 'infusões' (herbal teas) used to soothe a cough or aid digestion. The word itself carries a rustic, earthy connotation. It is not a 'fancy' word, but rather a practical, household term that every home cook knows. Whether you are at a 'mercado municipal' (local market) or a high-end supermarket, you will find bundles of tomilho tied with string. Its aroma is described as 'terroso' (earthy) and 'pungente' (pungent). Using tomilho in your vocabulary shows a specific level of fluency in daily life and domestic activities, moving beyond basic food items like 'carne' or 'peixe' into the nuances of flavoring and preparation.

Preciso de comprar um vaso de tomilho para a minha varanda.

Symbolism: In some Mediterranean traditions, tomilho symbolizes courage and strength. While this isn't a daily topic of conversation in Portugal, the herb is respected for its hardiness and ability to thrive in poor soil, much like the resilient spirit often celebrated in Portuguese folklore.

O cheiro do tomilho selvagem faz-me lembrar as férias na serra.

Podes picar o tomilho bem fininho para o molho?

Não ponhas demasiado tomilho, senão o sabor fica muito forte.

Using tomilho in a sentence requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a masculine singular noun. It is almost always accompanied by the definite article 'o' or the indefinite article 'um'. Because it is an uncountable noun when referring to the herb in general, but countable when referring to the plant or a variety, its usage can vary slightly depending on whether you are talking about the ingredient or the biological specimen. In culinary instructions, you will often see it paired with verbs like 'adicionar' (to add), 'temperar' (to season), 'picar' (to chop), or 'refogar' (to sauté).

Direct Object Usage: When tomilho is the thing being acted upon: 'Eu comprei tomilho' (I bought thyme). Here, it functions as the direct object. It is common to specify the state of the herb, such as 'tomilho seco' (dried thyme) or 'tomilho fresco' (fresh thyme).

Ela prefere usar tomilho seco nas suas receitas de inverno.

Prepositional Phrases: Tomilho often appears after prepositions like 'com' (with) or 'de' (of). For example, 'frango com tomilho' (chicken with thyme) or 'chá de tomilho' (thyme tea). In these cases, it modifies the preceding noun to describe a flavor or a type.

Este azeite é aromatizado com tomilho e alho.

When discussing the quantity of tomilho, Portuguese speakers use partitive expressions. Instead of saying 'two thymes', you would say 'dois ramos de tomilho' (two sprigs of thyme) or 'uma pitada de tomilho' (a pinch of thyme). In a professional kitchen context, you might hear 'uma mão cheia de tomilho' (a handful of thyme). If you are referring to the essential oil, it is 'óleo essencial de tomilho'. In more complex sentences, tomilho can be the subject: 'O tomilho cresce bem em solos secos' (Thyme grows well in dry soils). Here, the focus is on the biological characteristics of the plant. If you want to emphasize the fragrance, you might say 'O aroma do tomilho é inconfundível' (The aroma of thyme is unmistakable).

Coloquei apenas uma pitada de tomilho para não abafar os outros sabores.

Comparative Sentences: You might compare it to other herbs: 'O tomilho é mais resistente que o manjericão' (Thyme is more resistant than basil). This is useful when discussing gardening or the intensity of flavors in a dish.

O tomilho-limão é perfeito para pratos de peixe.

O jardim está cheio de tomilho em flor.

Não te esqueças de lavar o tomilho antes de o usares.

In the real world, tomilho is a word that echoes through various daily environments in Portugal and Brazil. The most common place is, unsurprisingly, the kitchen or a restaurant. If you are watching a Portuguese cooking show like 'MasterChef Portugal' or following a famous chef like José Avillez, the word tomilho will appear frequently as they explain the 'tempero' (seasoning) of a dish. Waiters in upscale restaurants might mention it when describing the 'especialidades do dia' (specials of the day), particularly if the dish involves slow-roasted meats or Mediterranean infusions.

At the Market: In a 'mercado municipal' (municipal market), you will hear vendors shouting about their fresh produce. You might ask, 'Tem tomilho fresco hoje?' (Do you have fresh thyme today?). The vendor might respond, 'Tenho sim, um molho por um euro' (Yes, one bunch for one euro). This is a very practical and common interaction.

O vendedor disse que o tomilho foi colhido esta manhã.

Gardening Centers: In a 'horto' (nursery) or 'centro de jardinagem', you will hear people discussing the best conditions for growing herbs. You might hear a gardener say, 'O tomilho precisa de muito sol e pouca água' (Thyme needs a lot of sun and little water). This is part of the common vocabulary for hobbyist gardeners in Portuguese-speaking countries.

Another context is the 'celeiro' or health food store. Because tomilho has medicinal properties, you will hear it mentioned in the context of natural remedies. A shop assistant might recommend 'xarope de tomilho' (thyme syrup) for a sore throat or 'infusão de tomilho' for digestive issues. In these settings, the tone is more clinical or wellness-oriented. Furthermore, in literature or poetry that describes the Portuguese landscape, tomilho often appears as a symbol of the 'charneca' (heathland) or the 'serra' (mountains). It's a word that carries a certain nostalgia for rural life. Even in urban settings, as urban gardening becomes more popular in cities like Lisbon or São Paulo, the word is heard among young professionals discussing their balcony herb gardens. It is a versatile word that bridges the gap between traditional rural knowledge and modern urban lifestyle.

Na farmácia natural, recomendaram-me pastilhas de tomilho.

O curso de culinária ensinou-nos a distinguir o tomilho do alecrim.

Ouvi no rádio que o tomilho é excelente para repelir insetos.

Learning to use tomilho correctly involves avoiding several common pitfalls that English speakers and other language learners often encounter. The most frequent errors relate to gender, pronunciation, and confusion with other similar-sounding words or similar-looking plants. Understanding these nuances will help you sound more like a native speaker and avoid confusion in the kitchen or at the market.

Gender Confusion: Many learners assume that because many herbs end in 'a' (like 'salsa' or 'hortelã' - which is feminine despite the ending), tomilho might follow a similar pattern. However, tomilho is masculine. Saying 'a tomilho' is a common mistake. Always use 'o tomilho'.

Errado: A tomilho está fresca. Correto: O tomilho está fresco.

Pronunciation of 'lh': The 'lh' digraph is notoriously difficult for English speakers. Some learners try to pronounce it like a simple 'l' or a 'y'. It is actually a palatal sound where the middle of the tongue touches the roof of the mouth. Avoid saying 'to-mi-lo' or 'to-mi-yo'.

Another common mistake is confusing 'tomilho' with 'tomate' (tomato) due to the similar starting syllable, especially for beginners. While they are completely different items, in a fast-paced environment like a kitchen, a slip of the tongue can happen. Additionally, learners often confuse 'tomilho' with 'alecrim' (rosemary). While they are both woody herbs often used together, they have distinct flavors and appearances. Alecrim has needle-like leaves, while tomilho has tiny, oval leaves. In terms of spelling, remember the 'h' after the 'l'. Writing 'tomilo' is a frequent spelling error even for some native speakers who are not used to writing culinary terms. Finally, be careful with the plural. Although you rarely need to pluralize it when referring to the herb as a seasoning, the plural is 'tomilhos'. If you say 'tomilhos', you are usually referring to different species or individual plants.

Não confundas o tomilho com o alecrim; o alecrim é muito mais forte.

Overuse in Recipes: A culinary mistake rather than a linguistic one, but often discussed in Portuguese: using too much tomilho. Natives will say 'O tomilho roubou o sabor' (The thyme stole the flavor), meaning it overpowered the dish.

Cuidado para não escrever tomilo na lista de compras.

O tomilho fresco é preferível ao seco nesta receita.

In the world of 'ervas aromáticas', tomilho exists within a family of flavors. Depending on what you are cooking or the context of your conversation, you might need to use synonyms, related words, or even substitutes. While there is no exact synonym for tomilho—it is a specific plant—there are many herbs that occupy the same culinary or linguistic space.

Alecrim (Rosemary): Alecrim is the most common alternative or companion to tomilho. Both are 'ervas lenhosas' (woody herbs). While tomilho is more subtle and earthy, alecrim is piney and very strong. They are often used together in 'assados' (roasts).

Orégano (Oregano): In some Mediterranean dishes, if you don't have tomilho, you might use orégano. However, orégano is more associated with pizzas and tomato sauces, whereas tomilho is more versatile for meats and soups.

Se não tiveres tomilho, podes usar um pouco de orégãos.

Other related terms include 'segurelha' (savory), which is less common but has a similar flavor profile to tomilho. There is also 'manjerona' (marjoram), which is sweeter and more delicate. When talking about the act of seasoning, you might use the general term 'ervas finas' (fine herbs) or 'condimentos'. If you are looking for a more botanical term, you might encounter 'mato', which in some regions of Portugal refers to wild herbs including wild thyme. In terms of varieties, 'tomilho-limão' is a crucial alternative to know, as its citrus notes make it a distinct ingredient for fish and desserts. Understanding these differences allows you to be more precise in your Portuguese. Instead of just saying 'the green stuff', you can specify 'o tomilho'. This level of detail is what separates a basic learner from an intermediate speaker who can navigate a Portuguese kitchen or market with confidence.

Comparison Table

Tomilho: Earthy, small leaves, masculine.
Alecrim: Piney, needle leaves, masculine.
Salsa: Fresh, flat or curly leaves, feminine.
Coentros: Pungent, soapy (to some), masculine (plural).

A segurelha é muitas vezes confundida com o tomilho.

Prefiro o tomilho ao manjericão para temperar o borrego.

O tomilho-limão dá um toque especial ao chá gelado.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"A inclusão de tomilho na dieta pode oferecer benefícios antioxidantes."

Neutral

"Pode comprar um pouco de tomilho no mercado?"

Informal

"Põe aí um bocado de tomilho nisso!"

Child friendly

"Olha esta plantinha verde, chama-se tomilho e cheira muito bem!"

Slang

"Esse prato está com o tomilho todo!"

Fun Fact

The Romans used thyme to purify their rooms and to give an aromatic flavor to cheese and liqueurs. In Portuguese, the word has remained very close to its Latin roots.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /tu.ˈmi.ʎu/

US /to.ˈmi.ʎoʊ/

The stress is on the second syllable: to-MIL-ho.

Rhymes With

Brilho Filho Milho Trilho Castilho Entrecilho Novilho Pequenilho

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'lh' as a simple 'l'.
Pronouncing 'lh' as a 'y' sound (Spanish influence).
Stress on the first or last syllable.
Making the 'o' too open in European Portuguese.
Ignoring the 'h' in spelling.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in context, especially in recipes.

Writing 4/5

The 'lh' and 'h' placement can be tricky for beginners.

Speaking 5/5

The 'lh' sound requires practice for non-native speakers.

Listening 3/5

Distinctive sound, but can be confused with other 'lh' words.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Erva Comida Verde Cozinha Cheiro

Learn Next

Alecrim Salsa Coentros Manjericão Orégão

Advanced

Fitoquímica Antisséptico Infusão Gastronomia Xerofítica

Grammar to Know

Masculine nouns ending in -o

O tomilho, o prato, o copo.

Adjective agreement

Tomilho fresco (masculine singular).

The 'lh' digraph

Tomilho, filho, espelho.

Partitive constructions

Um ramo DE tomilho.

Prepositional usage with 'com'

Frango COM tomilho.

Examples by Level

O tomilho é uma erva.

Thyme is an herb.

Simple subject-verb-complement structure.

Eu tenho tomilho na cozinha.

I have thyme in the kitchen.

Use of the verb 'ter' (to have).

O tomilho é verde.

The thyme is green.

Adjective agreement with masculine noun.

Gostas de tomilho?

Do you like thyme?

Simple question with 'gostar de'.

Comprei um molho de tomilho.

I bought a bunch of thyme.

Indefinite article 'um' and partitive 'molho de'.

O tomilho cheira bem.

The thyme smells good.

Verb 'cheirar' (to smell).

Não tenho tomilho seco.

I don't have dried thyme.

Negation with 'não'.

Onde está o tomilho?

Where is the thyme?

Interrogative 'onde'.

Vou temperar a carne com tomilho.

I am going to season the meat with thyme.

Future with 'ir' + infinitive.

O tomilho fresco é melhor que o seco.

Fresh thyme is better than dried.

Comparative 'melhor que'.

Podes picar o tomilho para a sopa?

Can you chop the thyme for the soup?

Modal verb 'poder' + infinitive.

Esta receita leva um ramo de tomilho.

This recipe takes a sprig of thyme.

Verb 'levar' meaning 'to require' in recipes.

O tomilho cresce no meu jardim.

Thyme grows in my garden.

Present tense of 'crescer'.

Prefiro chá de tomilho com mel.

I prefer thyme tea with honey.

Compound noun 'chá de tomilho'.

O tomilho dá um sabor especial.

Thyme gives a special flavor.

Verb 'dar' (to give).

Colhi o tomilho esta manhã.

I picked the thyme this morning.

Preterite tense of 'colher'.

O tomilho é muito resistente à seca.

Thyme is very resistant to drought.

Adjective 'resistente' followed by 'à'.

Se adicionares tomilho, o molho ficará mais aromático.

If you add thyme, the sauce will become more aromatic.

Conditional sentence with future subjunctive.

O tomilho-limão combina perfeitamente com peixe grelhado.

Lemon thyme pairs perfectly with grilled fish.

Compound noun with hyphen.

Dizem que o tomilho ajuda a aliviar a tosse.

They say that thyme helps to relieve a cough.

Impersonal 'dizem que'.

O jardim de ervas tem tomilho, alecrim e salsa.

The herb garden has thyme, rosemary, and parsley.

Listing items with commas and 'e'.

É necessário regar o tomilho apenas quando a terra estiver seca.

It is necessary to water the thyme only when the soil is dry.

Impersonal expression 'é necessário' + infinitive.

O aroma do tomilho espalhou-se por toda a casa.

The aroma of thyme spread through the whole house.

Reflexive verb 'espalhar-se'.

Sempre que cozinho borrego, uso muito tomilho.

Whenever I cook lamb, I use a lot of thyme.

Conjunction 'sempre que'.

O tomilho é um dos ingredientes fundamentais do bouquet garni.

Thyme is one of the fundamental ingredients of a bouquet garni.

Use of French culinary term in Portuguese context.

A infusão de tomilho deve repousar durante cinco minutos.

The thyme infusion should rest for five minutes.

Verb 'dever' + infinitive for instructions.

O tomilho selvagem cresce espontaneamente nas serras portuguesas.

Wild thyme grows spontaneously in the Portuguese mountains.

Adverb 'espontaneamente'.

Azeite aromatizado com tomilho é excelente para saladas.

Olive oil flavored with thyme is excellent for salads.

Past participle 'aromatizado' as an adjective.

Embora seja pequeno, o tomilho tem um sabor muito intenso.

Although it is small, thyme has a very intense flavor.

Conjunction 'embora' with present subjunctive.

A destilação do tomilho produz um óleo essencial muito potente.

The distillation of thyme produces a very potent essential oil.

Technical noun 'destilação'.

O tomilho atua como um conservante natural em certas carnes.

Thyme acts as a natural preservative in certain meats.

Verb 'atuar como'.

Não se deve confundir o tomilho com a segurelha, apesar das semelhanças.

One should not confuse thyme with savory, despite the similarities.

Passive 'se' with 'deve'.

A versatilidade do tomilho na culinária mediterrânica é inquestionável.

The versatility of thyme in Mediterranean cuisine is unquestionable.

Abstract noun 'versatilidade'.

As propriedades antissépticas do tomilho são conhecidas desde a Antiguidade.

The antiseptic properties of thyme have been known since Antiquity.

Historical reference and complex adjective.

O timol, extraído do tomilho, é utilizado em diversos produtos farmacêuticos.

Thymol, extracted from thyme, is used in various pharmaceutical products.

Appositive phrase with 'extraído do'.

O tomilho-bela-luz é uma espécie endémica da Península Ibérica.

Thyme-bela-luz is an endemic species of the Iberian Peninsula.

Scientific adjective 'endémica'.

A fragrância do tomilho evoca memórias de verões passados no campo.

The fragrance of thyme evokes memories of past summers in the countryside.

Poetic verb 'evocar'.

É imperativo que se colha o tomilho antes da floração para manter o aroma.

It is imperative that the thyme be harvested before flowering to maintain the aroma.

Subjunctive mood after 'é imperativo que'.

O uso excessivo de tomilho pode sobrepor-se aos sabores mais delicados do prato.

The excessive use of thyme can override the more delicate flavors of the dish.

Pronominal verb 'sobrepor-se'.

O tomilho rasteiro é frequentemente utilizado como cobertura de solo em jardins rochosos.

Creeping thyme is frequently used as ground cover in rock gardens.

Compound term 'tomilho rasteiro'.

A complexidade fitoquímica do tomilho confere-lhe um lugar de destaque na fitoterapia moderna.

The phytochemical complexity of thyme gives it a prominent place in modern phytotherapy.

Highly technical vocabulary.

Subjaz à utilização do tomilho uma tradição secular de simbiose entre o homem e a natureza.

Underlying the use of thyme is a centuries-old tradition of symbiosis between man and nature.

Inverted sentence structure for emphasis.

O tomilho, em toda a sua humildade botânica, encerra segredos gastronómicos inestimáveis.

Thyme, in all its botanical humility, holds inestimable gastronomic secrets.

Metaphorical and elevated language.

A análise sensorial do mel de tomilho revela notas florais e um final ligeiramente amargo.

Sensory analysis of thyme honey reveals floral notes and a slightly bitter finish.

Professional tasting terminology.

Não obstante a sua origem silvestre, o tomilho adaptou-se primorosamente ao cultivo doméstico.

Notwithstanding its wild origin, thyme has adapted exquisitely to domestic cultivation.

Formal conjunction 'não obstante'.

A presença de tomilho em sítios arqueológicos sugere a sua relevância em rituais ancestrais.

The presence of thyme in archaeological sites suggests its relevance in ancestral rituals.

Hypothetical scientific reasoning.

O tomilho atua como um catalisador de sabores, potenciando a profundidade de caldos e estufados.

Thyme acts as a flavor catalyst, enhancing the depth of broths and stews.

Metaphorical use of 'catalisador'.

A literatura bucólica portuguesa é pródiga em referências ao aroma inebriante do tomilho nas encostas.

Portuguese bucolic literature is lavish in references to the intoxicating aroma of thyme on the slopes.

Academic literary analysis.

Common Collocations

Tomilho fresco

Ramo de tomilho

Chá de tomilho

Tomilho seco

Azeite de tomilho

Tomilho-limão

Pitada de tomilho

Cheiro a tomilho

Plantar tomilho

Mel de tomilho

Common Phrases

Temperar com tomilho

— To season a dish using thyme.

Vou temperar o peixe com tomilho e limão.

Um toque de tomilho

— A small amount of thyme added for a subtle hint.

Este molho precisa de um toque de tomilho.

Tomilho q.b.

— Thyme as much as needed (common in recipes).

Ingredientes: sal, pimenta e tomilho q.b.

Raminho de tomilho

— A small sprig of thyme.

Decore o prato com um raminho de tomilho.

Infusão de tomilho

— A herbal tea made by steeping thyme.

Uma infusão de tomilho ajuda a digerir.

Tomilho moído

— Ground or powdered thyme.

Não gosto muito de usar tomilho moído.

Vaso de tomilho

— A pot containing a thyme plant.

Comprei um vaso de tomilho para a janela.

Colher tomilho

— To harvest or pick thyme.

É hora de colher o tomilho para secar.

Sabor a tomilho

— A flavor reminiscent of or containing thyme.

Este queijo tem um ligeiro sabor a tomilho.

Essência de tomilho

— The concentrated essence or oil of thyme.

A essência de tomilho é muito forte.

Often Confused With

tomilho vs Tomate

Phonetically similar start, but 'tomate' is a vegetable (fruit).

tomilho vs Alecrim

Both are woody herbs, but alecrim is rosemary.

tomilho vs Salsa

Salsa is parsley; it is much softer and green-leafy.

Idioms & Expressions

"Saber a tomilho"

— Literally 'to taste like thyme', but used metaphorically to describe something rustic and authentic.

Esta viagem pela aldeia soube-me a tomilho.

Poetic/Informal

"Dar o tomilho"

— A play on 'dar o toque', implying adding the final essential element.

A tua ajuda deu o tomilho que faltava ao projeto.

Creative/Slang

"Estar no tomilho"

— To be in a natural, wild, or rustic environment.

No fim de semana, quero estar no tomilho, longe da cidade.

Informal

"Cheirar a tomilho"

— To be fresh, clean, and natural.

A roupa lavada cheira a tomilho.

Standard

"Ter mãos para o tomilho"

— To be a good gardener, specifically with herbs.

A minha avó sempre teve mãos para o tomilho.

Informal

"Mais vale um ramo de tomilho que..."

— A made-up variation of proverbs, emphasizing that simple things are better.

Mais vale um ramo de tomilho que muita pimenta.

Folk-style

"Perdido no tomilho"

— Being lost in the countryside or among small details.

Fiquei perdido no tomilho a observar as abelhas.

Poetic

"Tomilho na alma"

— Having a rustic or resilient character.

Aquele velho pastor tem tomilho na alma.

Literary

"Fazer um chá de tomilho a alguém"

— To try to calm someone down or heal them with simple means.

Ele estava tão nervoso que lhe fiz um chá de tomilho.

Informal

"Ser do tempo do tomilho"

— To be very old or from a simpler time.

Estas tradições são do tempo do tomilho.

Informal

Easily Confused

tomilho vs Milho

Rhymes with tomilho.

Milho is corn; tomilho is thyme.

O milho é amarelo, o tomilho é verde.

tomilho vs Trilho

Rhymes with tomilho.

Trilho is a track or trail.

Seguimos o trilho na montanha.

tomilho vs Filho

Rhymes with tomilho.

Filho is a son.

O meu filho gosta de ajudar na horta.

tomilho vs Brilho

Rhymes with tomilho.

Brilho is brightness or shine.

O sol dá brilho às folhas de tomilho.

tomilho vs Tomilho-limão

A specific variety.

It has a citrus scent compared to the earthy scent of common thyme.

Usa tomilho-limão para o peixe.

Sentence Patterns

Eu gosto de [noun].

Eu gosto de tomilho.

Eu uso [noun] para [verb].

Eu uso tomilho para cozinhar.

Se eu tivesse [noun], eu [verb].

Se eu tivesse tomilho, eu faria um chá.

O [noun] é conhecido por [verb/noun].

O tomilho é conhecido pelas suas propriedades.

Não obstante o [noun] ser [adj]...

Não obstante o tomilho ser pequeno, é forte.

Subjaz ao uso do [noun] uma...

Subjaz ao uso do tomilho uma tradição antiga.

Onde posso comprar [noun]?

Onde posso comprar tomilho?

O [noun] fica bem com [noun].

O tomilho fica bem com batatas.

Word Family

Nouns

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

High in culinary and gardening domains.

Common Mistakes

A tomilho → O tomilho
Tomilho is a masculine noun. Articles and adjectives must agree.
Tomilo → Tomilho
The 'h' is necessary for the correct 'lh' sound and spelling.
Eu gosto tomilho → Eu gosto DE tomilho
The verb 'gostar' always requires the preposition 'de'.
Tomilho fresco (pronounced with 'l') → Tomilho (pronounced with 'lh')
The 'lh' is a distinct sound, not a simple 'l'.
Usar alecrim em vez de tomilho → Usar o ingrediente correto
While similar, they have very different flavor profiles in traditional recipes.

Tips

Mastering the 'LH'

Practice words like 'filho', 'milho', and 'tomilho' together to get the palatal lateral sound right. It's key to sounding native.

Fresh vs Dry

Always try to use fresh tomilho for fish and dry tomilho for long-cooking stews where the flavor has time to release.

Don't Overwater

Tomilho hates 'pés molhados' (wet feet). Make sure the pot has good drainage or it will rot quickly.

Look for Vibrant Green

When buying fresh tomilho, look for stems that are not woody at the top and leaves that are vibrant green, not grey.

Thyme Tea

If you have a sore throat, try a 'chá de tomilho' with a bit of honey. It's a very common Portuguese home remedy.

Learn the Family

Learn 'alecrim' and 'tomilho' together as they are the 'woody duo' of the Portuguese kitchen.

Gender Memory

Associate 'Tomilho' with 'Tom' (a man's name) to remember it is a masculine noun.

Regional Flavors

If you visit the Alentejo, look for dishes seasoned with wild tomilho; the flavor is much more intense than the supermarket version.

Freezing Thyme

You can freeze fresh tomilho in olive oil inside ice cube trays for easy use in future cooking.

Ancient Roots

Remembering that it comes from a word meaning 'to sacrifice' can help you remember its strong, incense-like aroma.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Tommy' (Tom-) who loves 'Thyme' (-ilho). Tommy and Thyme both start with T.

Visual Association

Imagine a tiny green forest (thyme leaves) growing on a wooden stick (the stem).

Word Web

Cozinha Erva Verde Cheiro Tempero Jardim Carne Saúde

Challenge

Try to use 'tomilho' in a sentence while ordering food or visiting a market this week.

Word Origin

From the Latin 'thymum', which in turn comes from the Ancient Greek 'thúmon' (θύμον).

Original meaning: The Greek root is associated with 'thuo', meaning to sacrifice or burn incense, referring to the herb's use as a fragrant offering.

Indo-European > Italic > Romance > Portuguese.

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities; it is a neutral culinary and botanical term.

English speakers often use 'thyme' as a generic herb, but in Portugal, people are very specific about using 'tomilho' vs 'alecrim'.

Used in recipes by Chef José Avillez. Mentioned in Portuguese botanical guides. Featured in traditional Fado songs describing the countryside.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Cooking a roast

Colocar tomilho no forno
Esfregar a carne com tomilho
Tomilho e alho
Assado aromático

Shopping at a market

Um molho de tomilho
Está fresco?
Quanto custa o tomilho?
Tem tomilho seco?

Gardening

Plantar num vaso
Precisa de sol
Não regar muito
Colher as folhas

Natural health

Chá para a tosse
Propriedades do tomilho
Fazer uma infusão
Remédio caseiro

Restaurant menu

Aromatizado com tomilho
Redução de tomilho
Frango ao tomilho
Manteiga de ervas

Conversation Starters

"Costumas usar tomilho nas tuas receitas ou preferes outras ervas?"

"Sabias que o tomilho é muito bom para curar a tosse?"

"Tens algum vaso de tomilho na tua varanda ou jardim?"

"Qual é o cheiro de erva aromática que mais gostas: tomilho ou alecrim?"

"Já provaste mel de tomilho? É muito comum em algumas regiões."

Journal Prompts

Descreve o aroma do tomilho e que memórias ele te traz.

Escreve uma receita simples que utilize tomilho como ingrediente principal.

Se tivesses um jardim de ervas, onde plantarias o teu tomilho?

Explica as diferenças que sentes entre o tomilho fresco e o tomilho seco.

Imagina que és um cozinheiro famoso; como apresentarias o tomilho aos teus clientes?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is masculine. You should always say 'o tomilho' or 'um tomilho'. Using the feminine 'a' is a common mistake for learners.

It is a palatal sound. Place the middle of your tongue against the roof of your mouth. It sounds like the 'll' in the English word 'million'.

Tomilho is thyme, which has tiny oval leaves and an earthy flavor. Alecrim is rosemary, which has needle-like leaves and a strong, piney scent. Both are used in roasts.

Yes, but dried tomilho is more concentrated. Use about one-third of the amount of dried thyme as you would fresh. Fresh is usually better for garnishes.

Yes, it is used in Brazil, though it might be less common in traditional everyday home cooking compared to 'salsa' and 'cebolinha', but very common in gourmet cooking.

In traditional Portuguese medicine, it is used as an antiseptic and to treat coughs and bronchitis, usually in the form of a tea or syrup.

It grows best in sunny areas with well-drained soil. It is very resistant to heat and drought, common in the Mediterranean climate.

It is lemon thyme, a variety that has a distinct lemon fragrance. It is excellent for seasoning fish, seafood, and even some desserts.

You say 'um ramo de tomilho' or 'um raminho de tomilho'.

In some regions of Portugal, wild varieties might have folk names like 'bela-luz' or 'serpão', but 'tomilho' is the standard name everywhere.