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Definition of parsnip

parsnip

/ˈpɑːr.snɪp/
par · snip
Plural:parsnips
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parsnip Lexical Profile

parsnip Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The long, tapering, cream-colored root of a biennial plant in the parsley family, cultivated and eaten as a vegetable, known for its sweet and slightly earthy flavor, especially when cooked.

Example

"We roasted the parsnips with carrots and potatoes to serve alongside the Sunday roast."

2

The Eurasian biennial plant (Pastinaca sativa) that produces this edible taproot.

Example

"The farmer planted parsnip seeds in the sandy soil, knowing they would need a long growing season."

• Nearby Words

parrotfinch
parrotfish
parsley
parsnip
parson chameleon
parthenogenic
participaction

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'passenep', derived from Old French 'pasnaie' (from Latin 'pastinaca', meaning parsnip or carrot), with the ending altered by association with the Middle English word 'nep' (turnip).

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Parsnip. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 15, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/parsnip
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