coleslaw

noun

cole·​slaw ˈkōl-ˌslȯ 

variants or less commonly cole slaw

plural coleslaws also cole slaws

: a salad made of raw sliced or chopped cabbage and often additional ingredients (such as shredded carrots or raisins) tossed in a usually creamy dressing

called also slaw

Examples of coleslaw in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

How to Eat Shred raw Brussels sprouts and use in a coleslaw or salad. — Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 5 July 2026

Just before serving, top coleslaw with pickle slices or chips and more dill. — Inés Anguiano, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 July 2026

Make sure to allow at least 30 minutes for the coleslaw to chill before serving. — Patricia S York, Southern Living, 27 June 2026

Raising Cane’s airport menu The fast-food chain only offers five items – chicken fingers, Cane’s toast, coleslaw, crinkle cut fries and a chicken finger sandwich. — Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Dutch koolsla, from kool cabbage + sla salad

First Known Use

1794, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for coleslaw

• allantois
• baccarat
• chickasaw
• mackinaw
• overawe
• oversaw
• quebecois
• yojana
• aa
• aha
• bashaw
• bradshaw

Kids Definition

coleslaw

noun

cole·​slaw ˈkōl-ˌslȯ 

: a salad made of sliced or chopped raw cabbage