tomatillo

noun

to·​ma·​til·​lo ˌtō-mə-ˈtē-(ˌ)yō  -ˈtēl-(ˌ)yō 

plural tomatillos

: the small round yellow, purplish, and especially pale green edible sticky fruit of a Mexican ground-cherry (Physalis philadelphica synonym P. ixocarpa)

also : the plant that bears tomatillos

Examples of tomatillo in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Roasted tomatillos and a mix of green chiles give the Mexican stew its tang and heat; a final swirl of cilantro purée adds fresh flavor and turns the whole pot brilliantly green. — Chris Morocco, Bon Appetit Magazine, 30 Oct. 2026

By swapping in tomatillos for the more common tomatoes and pairing them with citrus, Schmitt brings bright, tangy notes to this simple soup. — Jack Dolan, Los Angeles Times, 28 Oct. 2026

Themed cocktails include the Malort of the Rings and the Green Dragon with green chile vodka and tomatillo. — Sam Flemming, AJC.com, 25 Oct. 2026

In a food processor, combine the tomatillos, avocado, shallot, cilantro, spinach, jalapeño, lime juice and salt. — ABC News, 20 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, diminutive of tomate

First Known Use

circa 1913, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for tomatillo

• clio
• meo
• yeo