cilantro

noun

ci·​lan·​tro si-ˈlän-(ˌ)trō How to pronounce cilantro (audio) -ˈlan- How to pronounce cilantro (audio)
: leaves of coriander used as a flavoring or garnish

Examples of cilantro in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Cool for 1 minute, then stir in the cilantro and red pepper flakes, if using. Lynda Balslev, Mercury News, 10 Sep. 2025 Customers can choose from cheese, onions, cilantro, jalapenos, salsas and more. Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Sep. 2025 The protein, which is grilled steak marinated in a blend of cumin, coriander, garlic and oregano, topped with fresh lime and cilantro, is back for a limited time, though an end-date is not clear. Sabrina Weiss, PEOPLE, 8 Sep. 2025 Or tender, juicy mojo pork marinated with savory cumin and cilantro, and brightened with zesty lime and orange juices. Martie Bowser, Miami Herald, 5 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cilantro

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, coriander, from Medieval Latin celiandrum, alteration of Latin coriandrum — more at coriander

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cilantro was in 1903

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cilantro.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cilantro. Accessed 15 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on cilantro

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!