parsnip

noun

pars·​nip ˈpär-snəp 

: a Eurasian biennial herb (Pastinaca sativa) of the carrot family with large pinnate leaves and yellow flowers that is cultivated for its long tapered whitish root which is cooked as a vegetable

also : the root

Illustration of parsnip

Did you know?

The word parsnip was borrowed into Middle English in the 14th century as a modification of the Old French word pasnaie, itself derived from the Latin noun pastinaca, meaning "parsnip" or "carrot." The scientific name for the parsnip, "Pastinaca sativa," still reflects this history. "Pastinaca," in turn, traces back to "pastinum," a Latin word for a small gardening tool used to make holes in the ground for the insertion of plants, seeds, or bulbs. "Parsnip" may also remind you of the name of another edible root, "turnip," and there's a possible explanation for the resemblance. The Middle English spelling of "parsnip" ("passenep") may have been influenced by "nepe," the old form of "turnip."

Examples of parsnip in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Mushrooms, parsnips, beets, and carrots are still having their moment. —Jenna Anderson, Sunset Magazine, 1 Mar. 2024

Carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes work together to create a gorgeous orange-hued soup that's supremely versatile. —Marianne Williams, Southern Living, 13 Dec. 2023

Word History

Etymology

Middle English passenep, modification of Old French pasnaie, from Latin pastinaca, from pastinum 2-pronged dibble

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing parsnip

• cow parsnip
• giant cow parsnip

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Kids Definition

parsnip

noun

pars·​nip ˈpär-snəp 

: a Eurasian herb related to the carrot and grown for its long white root which is cooked as a vegetable

also : this root