cilantro

noun

ci·​lan·​tro si-ˈlän-(ˌ)trō How to pronounce cilantro (audio) -ˈlan- How to pronounce cilantro (audio)
: leaves of coriander used as a flavoring or garnish
also : coriander sense 1

Examples of cilantro 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.
Step 2 Meanwhile, blend 1 cup (firmly packed) tender herbs (such as parsley, dill, cilantro, and/or basil), ¾ cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt, ⅓ cup mayonnaise, 1 Tbsp. — Rebecca Firkser, Bon Appetit Magazine, 13 Aug. 2026 While a source has not been identified, both cilantro and parsley were eaten more often than expected compared to population wide surveys, according to the NC Department of Health and Human Services. — Eva Flowe august 10, Charlotte Observer, 10 Aug. 2026 Twenty-seven states are affected by salmonella, possibly linked to jalapenos, but cilantro, red onion, avocado also listed in the CDC notice. — CBS News, 9 Aug. 2026 The smell is rich, oceanic, and bursting with notes of lime and cilantro. — Megan Spurrell, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cilantro

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, coriander, from Medieval Latin celiandrum, alteration of Latin coriandrum — more at coriander

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cilantro was in 1903

Browse Nearby Words

Cilacap
cilantro
Cilegon
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cilantro.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cilantro. Accessed 21 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on cilantro

Nglish: Translation of cilantro for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cilantro

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