Definition

A small type of onion that has a mild flavor and is often used in cooking.

Example

I added some chopped shallots to the sauce for extra flavor.

Conversation

Have you ever tried cooking with a shallot?

Yeah, I love their flavor! They're so much milder than regular onions.

I just bought some for a recipe I'm making tonight.

Nice! They really add a great touch to dishes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Shallot comes from Old French *eschalote*, which is derived from Latin *caepa* (meaning onion) and the diminutive suffix *-ot*, indicating a smaller version. The word 'shallot' refers to a small onion, specifically a type of onion that is milder in flavor than a regular onion.

Memory Tip

Think of a small 'onion' ('caepa') when you hear 'shallot' — it helps you remember that a shallot is a smaller, milder onion.

Visually Confused Words