asparagus

noun

as·​par·​a·​gus ə-ˈsper-ə-gəs 

-ˈspa-rə-

plural asparagus

: any of a genus (Asparagus of the family Asparagaceae, the asparagus family) of Old World perennial plants having much-branched stems, minute scalelike leaves, and narrow usually filiform branchlets that function as leaves

especially : one (A. officinalis) widely cultivated for its edible young shoots

Illustration of asparagus

Examples of asparagus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The biggest highlight was the refrigerator devoted entirely to green produce, including watermelons, lettuce, asparagus, herbs and more. — Sabrina Weiss, PEOPLE, 30 July 2026

This year’s menu featured poached salmon, asparagus and a citrus salad with lemon-tahini dressing. — Tiney Ricciardi, Denver Post, 30 July 2026

Cooking asparagus and carrots in healthy fats helps your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins. — Lindsey Desoto, Health, 29 July 2026

Arrange some asparagus on each side and top with some dill sprigs. — Alexia Duchêne, Bon Appetit Magazine, 23 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, genus name, from Latin, asparagus plant, from Greek asparagos; perhaps akin to Greek spargan to swell

First Known Use

1543, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

asparagus

noun

as·​par·​a·​gus ə-ˈspar-ə-gəs 

: a tall branching long-lived herb related to the lilies and widely grown for its thick edible young shoots

Medical Definition

asparagus

noun

as·​par·​a·​gus ə-ˈspar-ə-gəs 

1

capitalized : a genus of Old World perennial herbs (family Asparagaceae, the asparagus family) having erect much-branched stems, minute scalelike leaves, and narrow filiform branchlets that function as leaves

2

a

: any plant of the genus Asparagus

especially : a plant (A. officinalis) widely cultivated for its tender edible young shoots

b

: the root of cultivated asparagus formerly used as a diuretic