Parsnip-Like
/ˈpɑːr.snɪp laɪk/noun
Resembling a parsnip in appearance, shape, color, or other qualities.
Did you know?The word “parsnip” traveled through Latin and Old French before entering English, while “like” originally described something having a similar body or form—not merely sharing an appearance.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Latin
Latin
pastināca
“Parsnip or related root vegetable; the source of English “parsnip” through French.”
Old French
Old French
pasnaie
“Parsnip; a medieval French form descended from Latin pastināca.”
Middle English
Middle English
pasnepe
“Parsnip; an English form influenced by the word “nepe,” meaning turnip.”
Old English
Old English
gelīc
“Like or similar; literally expressing the idea of having the same form or body.”
Modern English
English
parsnip-like
“A productive compound adjective meaning resembling a parsnip.”