1
: a sauce made typically of oil, vinegar, and seasonings and used especially on salads, cold meats, or fish

called also vinaigrette dressing

2
: a small ornamental box or bottle with perforated top used for holding an aromatic preparation (such as smelling salts)

Examples of vinaigrette 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.
Chickpeas, green beans, onions, capers, and a simple homemade vinaigrette come together in a side dish that’s both fresh and filling. Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 23 July 2026 Bistro classics like leeks vinaigrette, garlic-parsley frog legs, sea bream carpaccio, chicken supreme with morels, and chateaubriand round out the comforting menu. Devorah Lev-Tov, Travel + Leisure, 23 July 2026 Add vinaigrette, 1 cup blueberries, and half of almonds, and toss to coat evenly. Cate Huguelet, Chicago Tribune, 20 July 2026 Balsamic Vinaigrette Balsamic vinaigrette is a versatile dressing with a tart, acidic flavor. Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 17 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for vinaigrette

Word History

Etymology

French, from vinaigre vinegar

First Known Use

1811, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of vinaigrette was in 1811

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Vinaigrette.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vinaigrette. Accessed 30 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

vinaigrette

noun
: a sauce made of oil, vinegar, and seasonings and used especially on salads, cold meats, or fish

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