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

Particular mostly to Louisiana weddings, the second line parade is quite the celebratory tradition in which a brass band and parasol-wielding newlyweds lead their guests, who wave handkerchiefs or napkins, on a festive jaunt through the city (or around their reception venue). —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 27 Feb. 2026

In summer, expect a family pool and outdoor grotto coves with sun chairs and parasols in the hotel's signature red hue. —Jenn Rice, Travel + Leisure, 8 Feb. 2026

Models held fringed bags that resembled early spring grass clippings, wore shoes covered in pink petals, and carried leafy green stems as parasols. —Madeline Hirsch, InStyle, 29 Jan. 2026

Airelles Château de la Messardière At Airelles Château de la Messardière, which commands a hilltop above Saint-Tropez, the arbor at the entrance is festooned with green plants that complement the surrounding forest of parasol pines. —Mary Winston Nicklin, AFAR Media, 20 Jan. 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