Parasol
PAIR-uh-sol
/ˈpærəsɔːl/
A light, handheld folding umbrella used as a canopy to protect a person from sunlight.
Specifically designed for sun protection rather than rain, often delicate, decorative, and crafted from fabric or lace.
The story behind the word. Borrowed from French 'parasol', derived from Italian 'parasole'. It combines 'para-' (to shield or ward off) with 'sole' (sun, from Latin 'sol'). Parasols were symbol of royalty and status in ancient Egypt, China, and Greece long before waterproof umbrellas were invented for wet weather.
Word relationships
- sunshade: Sunshade can refer to static patio umbrellas or automotive window shields, whereas parasol is typically a delicate personal accessory.
- umbrella: An umbrella is constructed with waterproof treated fabric specifically for rain, whereas a parasol is decorative fabric for sun light.
Commonly confused with
- brolly: Brolly is British slang specifically for a rain umbrella, not a delicate sun canopy.
Collocations
- lace parasol
- silk parasol
- paper parasol
- twirling a parasol
Example sentences
- "The ladies strolled along the seaside promenade, twirling lace parasols above their bonnets." Historical period novel
Memory hook
PARA- (shield) + SOL (sun) = a shield against the sun. Shield yourself from the sun's rays.
When not to use
Do not use to describe heavy waterproof umbrellas used during rainstorms.
Fun facts
- In Victorian high society, ladies used complex parasol body language signals to silently flirt with admirers in public parks.
Explore more words
fascinator, canopy, pavilion, chaise longue, delicate, solar
Also appears in
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