parasol

noun

par·​a·​sol ˈper-ə-ˌsȯl How to pronounce parasol (audio)
-ˌsäl, 
ˈpa-rə-
: a lightweight umbrella used as a sunshade

Examples of parasol 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.
Cold towels, strawberries and parasols were offered at the door. — ABC News, 24 June 2026 Add a decorative parasol or even some leafy branches stuck in the container as quick shade providers until the plants revive. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 22 June 2026 At the Australian Open this year, Osaka walked onto court wearing a wide-brim hat, a veil and holding a white parasol. — Mattias Karen, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026 Tourists still lined up outside the iconic museum, as visitors shielded themselves with parasols and umbrellas. — Kelly McGreal , Jessica Mekles, FOXNews.com, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for parasol

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French, "screen or canopy shielding from the sun," going back to Middle French, borrowed from Italian parasole, from para "(it) shields, keeps out" (3rd singular present of parare "to prepare, adorn, avert, shield") + sole "sun," going back to Latin sōl — more at parry, solar

First Known Use

1660, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of parasol was in 1660

Browse Nearby Words

parasocial
parasol
parasol ant
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Parasol.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/parasol. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Copy Citation

Kids Definition

parasol

noun
para·​sol
ˈpar-ə-ˌsȯl
: a light umbrella for protection against the sun

More from Merriam-Webster on parasol

Nglish: Translation of parasol for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about parasol

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