shallot

noun

plural shallots
1
: a perennial onion (Allium cepa var. aggregatum) that produces small clustered bulbs which resemble those of garlic and are used in cooking
also : its bulb
2

Examples of shallot in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Add shallot and garlic; cook 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Elizabeth Nelson, Southern Living, 17 Oct. 2025 Add the shallots and garlic and stir and cook just until golden, about 30 seconds. Kate Bradshaw, Mercury News, 13 Oct. 2025 Shop the supermarket for squash, shallots, onions, nuts, and pears. Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Oct. 2025 In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, shallots, Dijon mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt and pepper. Bethany Thayer, Freep.com, 27 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for shallot

Word History

Etymology

modification of French échalote, from Middle French eschalotte, alteration of eschaloigne, from Vulgar Latin *escalonia — more at scallion

First Known Use

1664, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of shallot was in 1664

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Cite this Entry

“Shallot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shallot. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

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