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.
Toss with the shrimp, then top with avocado and cilantro. Kathryn Gregory, Louisville Courier Journal, 14 Oct. 2025 Store fresh coriander leaves (cilantro) in the refrigerator for optimal freshness. Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 14 Oct. 2025 Cocktails highlight Southwestern spirits like mezcal and tequila, and staples like jalapeño, cilantro and lime. Suzanne Wright, USA Today, 13 Oct. 2025 Serve chicken topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, scallions, cilantro, and pickled jalapeno slices (if desired). Elizabeth Nelson, Southern Living, 10 Oct. 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 16 Oct. 2025.

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