parasol

noun

par·​a·​sol ˈper-ə-ˌsȯl 

-ˌsäl, 

ˈpa-rə-

: a lightweight umbrella used as a sunshade

Examples of parasol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Sun loungers, parasols, cafés, wellness studios, paddleboards, tennis courts and even wooden boats become part of the brand experience, allowing consumers to spend an entire day living inside a brand rather than simply shopping with it. — Kate Hardcastle, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026

At the Australian Open this year, Osaka walked onto court wearing a wide-brim hat, a veil and holding a white parasol. — Mattias Karen, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026

Tourists still lined up outside the iconic museum, as visitors shielded themselves with parasols and umbrellas. — Kelly McGreal , Jessica Mekles, FOXNews.com, 26 June 2026

Cold towels, strawberries and parasols were offered at the door. — ABC News, 24 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French, "screen or canopy shielding from the sun," going back to Middle French, borrowed from Italian parasole, from para "(it) shields, keeps out" (3rd singular present of parare "to prepare, adorn, avert, shield") + sole "sun," going back to Latin sōl — more at parry, solar

First Known Use

1660, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

parasol

noun

para·​sol

ˈpar-ə-ˌsȯl

: a light umbrella for protection against the sun