chervil

noun

cher·​vil ˈchər-vəl How to pronounce chervil (audio)
: an aromatic herb (Anthriscus cerefolium) of the carrot family with divided leaves that are often used in soups and salads
also : any of several related plants

Examples of chervil 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.
The fresh Herb Salad has a surprise in every bite — chervil, tarragon, celery leaves, even mint or dill. Chiara Kim, PEOPLE, 25 June 2026 But in the garden, chervil is a powerhouse plant that can deter slugs and snails, while attracting beneficial bugs like hoverflies and ladybugs. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 June 2026 If your herb garden struggles with pests, chervil is a compatible herb to plant near your cilantro to keep them away. Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 3 June 2026 Key ingredients included saffron, chorizo, chervil, and a single ají dulce pepper (lightly roasted). Caroline Framke, Vulture, 2 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for chervil

Word History

Etymology

Middle English cherville, from Old English cerfille, from Latin caerefolium, modification of Greek *chairephyllon, from chairein to rejoice + phyllon leaf — more at yearn, blade

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of chervil was before the 12th century

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Cite this Entry

“Chervil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chervil. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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