slaw

American  

[slaw] / slɔ /

noun

1. coleslaw.

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slaw British  

/ slɔː /

noun

1. short for coleslaw

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Usage

What is slaw? Slaw is a cold salad commonly made from sliced or chopped raw vegetables, especially cabbage or carrots, mixed with a dressing made with mayonnaise or vinegar. It often includes other seasonings and ingredients, such as onions and apples.The word coleslaw can be used to mean the same thing (and slaw is often short for coleslaw). However, coleslaw typically refers to the kind made with cabbage, while slaw can refer to varieties made without cabbage, such as carrot slaw.Slaw 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 slaw with carrots and onions. 

Etymology

Origin of slaw

1860–65, < Dutch sla, short for salade salad

Example Sentences

Freezer meals get a little lift from something fresh: a side salad, a quick slaw, a scattering of herbs, a drizzle of sauce.

From Salon

As word of mouth spread curious customers lined up for meals that included two tenders with fries, slaw and slices of white bread, nearly identical to what the chain offers today.

From Los Angeles Times

There’s a reason lettuce, tomato and onion belong on a burger or why slaw makes a sandwich better — raw elements add contrast and balance, not just crunch but freshness and vibrancy.

From Salon

Attend a barbecue, church potluck or summer dinner in the small city of Cleveland in eastern Tennessee, and somewhere on the table, there will be a dish of hot slaw.

From New York Times

Cabbage can be thought of as a rather mundane vegetable and is generally turned into a slaw of sorts.

From Salon