brussels sprout

noun

brus·​sels sprout ˈbrə-səl- 

variants or Brussels sprout

plural brussels sprouts or Brussels sprouts

1

: a plant (Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera) related to the cabbage and cauliflower that is cultivated for its edible small roundish green buds which are borne on its stem and resemble miniature cabbages

2

: any of the edible green buds that are borne on the stems of brussels sprouts, consist of tightly overlapping immature leaves, and are typically cooked as a vegetable

Illustration of brussels sprout

• brussels sprout 1

Examples of brussels sprout in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Serve roasted brussels sprouts as a side dish with dinner. —Jamie Johnson, Verywell Health, 15 May 2025

There are several myths that certain foods are bad for thyroid function, including gluten and cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, brussels sprouts, and cauliflower). —Patty Weasler, Verywell Health, 27 May 2025

Foods packed with vitamin C (like citrus fruits, brussels sprouts, and red pepper) or vitamin E (e.g., mango, spinach, and avocado) fit the bill. —Erica Sloan, SELF, 25 Apr. 2025

Roast a big batch of veggies: Roasted broccoli, brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes make great leftovers. —Jamie Johnson, Verywell Health, 22 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1796, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for brussels sprout

• roundabout
• runabout
• sauerkraut
• thereabout
• turnabout
• about
• bailout
• blackout
• blowout
• breakout
• burnout
• buyout

Kids Definition

brussels sprout

noun

brus·​sels sprout ˌbrəs-əl- 

often capitalized B

: one of the edible small green heads that grow on the stem of a plant related to the cabbage

also : this plant