sparrowgrass

[ spar-oh-gras, -grahs ]

noun

, Informal.

1. asparagus.

sparrowgrass

/ ˈspærəʊˌɡrɑːs /

noun

1. a dialect or popular name for asparagus

Word History and Origins

Origin of sparrowgrass¹

First recorded in 1650–60; by folk etymology

Word History and Origins

Origin of sparrowgrass¹

C17: variant of asparagus , associated by folk etymology with sparrow and grass

Example Sentences

Look at old Pedro and Philippa over there, setting out that stuff that looks like sparrowgrass.

From Project Gutenberg

Mrs. Sparrowgrass and I have concluded to try it once more; we are going to give the country another chance.

From Project Gutenberg

"Now," said I to Mrs. Sparrowgrass, "we shall have fresh fish to-morrow for breakfast," and went out to set it.

From Project Gutenberg

Besides, Mrs. Sparrowgrass had bought a rattle when she was in Philadelphia; such a rattle as watchmen carry there.

From Project Gutenberg

If ever I felt angry at anybody it was at myself for putting up those bars to please Mrs. Sparrowgrass.

From Project Gutenberg