coleslaw

[kohl-slaw]

noun

1. a salad of finely sliced or chopped raw cabbage, usually moistened with a mayonnaise dressing.

coleslaw

/ ˈkəʊlˌslɔː /

noun

1. a salad of shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, carrots, onions, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of coleslaw¹

1785–95; < Dutch koolsla, equivalent to kool cabbage, cole + sla, contraction of salade salad

Word History and Origins

Origin of coleslaw¹

C19: from Dutch koolsla, from koolsalade, literally: cabbage salad

Example Sentences

There are many sides, such as crab cakes, soup, and more, but I’d rather enjoy the crab with the included accompaniments of coleslaw, garlic rolls and butter.

From Salon

The official Door County website calls them a "one-of-a-kind epicurean event," noting some other sides that aren't as often mentioned, from lemon wedges, coleslaw and bread to "fresh-baked Door County cherry pie" for dessert.

From Salon

But to call it spicy coleslaw is not quite right either.

From New York Times

My fingers are crossed that it can graduate from coleslaw and become a featured vegetable at nicer restaurants near me.

From Salon

In addition to yogurt, Dandrea-Russert points to salad dressings as a big culprit when it comes to hidden sugars, while Malkhoff-Cohen lists other common offenders: pasta sauce, ketchup, barbecue sauce, cereal, coleslaw and dried fruit.

From Salon

Related Words

• sauerkraut 

When To Use

What is coleslaw?

Coleslaw is a cold salad traditionally made from sliced or chopped raw cabbage mixed with a dressing made with mayonnaise or vinegar. It often includes other seasonings and ingredients, such as onions, carrots, or apples. The word slaw can be used to mean the same thing. Sometimes, slaw is used to refer to a similar cold salad that does not include cabbage, such as carrot slaw.  Coleslaw is most commonly served as a side dish, such as for barbecue, or a topping, such as for sandwiches. In the U.S., it’s associated with cookouts and picnics and known as a common side dish at some restaurants. Example: My mom makes a tasty coleslaw that includes carrots and onions.