parsley

noun

pars·​ley ˈpär-slē 

: a European biennial herb (Petroselinum crispum) of the carrot family widely grown for its finely dissected curly or flat leaves which are used as an herb or garnish

also : the leaves

Examples of parsley in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

It’s served atop schmaltzy, crunchy bread and topped with parsley. —Kate Bradshaw, The Mercury News, 24 Feb. 2025

Like chive plants, parsley grows best in moist soil and sun and doesn’t take up much space in herb beds or container gardens. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Feb. 2025

Remove and discard thyme sprigs and bay leaf; serve immediately garnished with parsley and additional sour cream. —Craig Ruff, Southern Living, 15 Feb. 2025

Serve in soup bowls and garnish with parsley and American cheese, if desired. —Contributing Writer, Orange County Register, 9 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English persely, from Old English petersilie, from Vulgar Latin *petrosilium, alteration of Latin petroselinum, from Greek petroselinon, from petros stone + selinon celery

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing parsley

• Chinese parsley
• fool's parsley
• giant cow parsley
• Italian parsley

Rhymes for parsley

• sparsely

Kids Definition

parsley

noun

pars·​ley ˈpär-slē 

plural parsleys

: a European herb related to the carrot and widely grown for its finely divided leaves which are used to season or decorate foods

also : the leaves

Medical Definition

parsley

noun

pars·​ley ˈpär-slē 

: a southern European annual or biennial herb (Petroselinum crispum) of the carrot family having leaves which are used as a culinary herb or garnish and a root and seeds which have been used medicinally