1
: a flavored custard containing whipped cream and syrup frozen without stirring
2
: a cold dessert made of layers of fruit, syrup, ice cream, and whipped cream

Examples of parfait 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.
Add in homemade or store-bought pound cake for a parfait worthy of a party. Victoria Spencer, Martha Stewart, 3 July 2026 Morning starters include kringle, fresh fruit, a parfait bar, pastries, charcuterie, seafood and salads. Elaine Rewolinski, jsonline.com, 28 Apr. 2026 Think of it like a simple parfait, or like strawberries and cream, but with a sweet crunch and satisfying chew from the broken meringue. Sheri Castle, Southern Living, 27 May 2026 These little jewels also add a beautiful pop of color to dishes her daughter already loves, like yogurt parfaits or oatmeal. Sherri Gordon, Parents, 28 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for parfait

Word History

Etymology

French, literally, something perfect, from parfait perfect, from Latin perfectus

First Known Use

1894, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of parfait was in 1894

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

Kids Definition

1
: a custard containing whipped cream and syrup frozen without stirring
2
: a dessert of layers of fruit, syrup, ice cream, and whipped cream

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