watercress

noun

wa·​ter·​cress ˈwȯ-tər-ˌkres 

ˈwä-

1

: any of several aquatic or semiaquatic cresses

especially : a perennial cress (Nasturtium officinale) native to Europe and southwestern Asia that is naturalized in the U.S. and has leaves used especially in salads or as a potherb

2

: the leaves of a watercress

Examples of watercress in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Fluke Milanese appears on the as a minimalist adult fish stick paired with a petite salad of watercress, fennel, and shiso. —Caroline Hatchett, Robb Report, 1 Nov. 2024

Brow Fix is also infused with softening silk, conditioning panthenol, and hydrating watercress extract. —Sarah Han, Allure, 5 Sep. 2024

The Delancey Deluxe Burger nods to the iconic Prince Street bistro Raoul’s with a chuck-and-short rib blend, Muenster cheese, sour cherry aioli, watercress, cornichon and gravy for dipping. —Melinda Sheckells, The Hollywood Reporter, 14 Aug. 2024

Arrange salmon pieces, grapefruit segments and avocado on top of watercress. —Gretchen McKay, Twin Cities, 17 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

watercress

noun

wa·​ter·​cress -ˌkres 

: a plant that is related to the mustards and the cabbage, grows especially in clear running water, and has crisp peppery-tasting leaves used especially in salads

also : the leaves of a watercress