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noun

parsnip

PAH-snihp

Parsnip (noun) means a pale, sweet-tasting root vegetable related to the carrot. Example: “She roasted parsnips alongside the carrots and potatoes.”

noun
1
A pale, sweet-tasting root vegetable related to the carrot.
"She roasted parsnips alongside the carrots and potatoes."
"Parsnip soup is a favourite on cold winter evenings."

How to use parsnip

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA cream-coloured root vegetable, sweeter and softer than a carrot, often roasted.

Common pairings
roast parsnips parsnip soup mashed parsnip

Word forms

parsnips plural

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Test yourself on “parsnip” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

She roasted _____ alongside the carrots and potatoes.

Etymology

From Latin pastinaca, "parsnip, carrot," related to pastinum, a two-pronged digging fork.

Origin: Latin

Frequently asked questions

What does “parsnip” mean?

The word “parsnip” means a pale, sweet-tasting root vegetable related to the carrot. In plain terms, a cream-coloured root vegetable, sweeter and softer than a carrot, often roasted.

How do you pronounce “parsnip”?

“Parsnip” is pronounced PAH-snihp (/ˈpɑɹ.snɪp/ in IPA).

How do you use “parsnip” in a sentence?

Here is “parsnip” used in a sentence: “She roasted parsnips alongside the carrots and potatoes.”

What part of speech is “parsnip”?

“Parsnip” is a noun.

Where does the word “parsnip” come from?

The word “parsnip” comes from Latin. From Latin pastinaca, "parsnip, carrot," related to pastinum, a two-pronged digging fork.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial