Petroselinum

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A flowering plant in the Apiaceae family, commonly known as parsley, which is widely used as a culinary herb
2. A green-leaved herb valued for its flavor and garnishing ability, belonging to the carrot family and used in various dishes
3. An edible biennial plant with crisp, curly or flat leaves, often used to enhance the taste of foods and as a garnish in cooking

Etymology: Ancient Greek speakers called this herb "petroselinon," a compound of "petra" (rock) and "selinon" (celery or a similar plant), so the name literally meant "rock celery." Its exact origin is uncertain, though it may refer to the plant's liking for rocky ground. The Romans adopted the name as "petroselinum," and it spread through Latin herbals and medieval gardens across Europe. English received it as Old English "petersilie," which pronunciation changes later reshaped into modern "parsley." The English name still carries the rock-based description, which has nothing to do with the herb's use on the plate.

Synonyms: parsley