Definition

1. Noun:
   • A young onion before the bulb has enlarged; a green onion: A type of onion harvested early, characterized by a long, slender white stalk (which may have a small, undeveloped bulb) and long, hollow, dark green leaves. Both the white and green parts are edible and are commonly used raw in salads or as a garnish.
   • A plant resembling such an onion: Specifically, the plant Allium fistulosum (Welsh onion), which does not form a significant bulb and is cultivated for its edible green leaves and white stalk.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The recipe calls for one finely chopped scallion.
  • Garnish the soup with fresh scallions.
  • She prefers the mild flavor of scallions in her salad over regular onions.

Advanced Usage

• "Spring onion": In many regions, "scallion" is synonymous with "spring onion" or "green onion," though botanical distinctions can sometimes exist.
  • In British English, 'spring onion' is the more common term for what Americans call a 'scallion'.

Variants and Related Words

• Green onion (n): A common synonym for scallion.
• Spring onion (n): Another common synonym, frequently used outside North America.
• Allium fistulosum (n): The botanical name for the Welsh onion, a perennial plant often harvested as a scallion.

Synonyms

• Green onion: Emphasizes the edible green tops.
• Spring onion: Emphasizes the early harvest season.
• Welsh onion: Refers to the specific perennial variety.

Related Phrases / Collocations

• Chopped scallions: A common preparation method.
• Scallion garnish: A typical use in culinary presentation.
• Scallion pancakes: A dish where scallions are a key ingredient.

Noun

1. a young onion before the bulb has enlarged; eaten in salads
2. plant having a large slender white bulb and flat overlapping dark green leaves; used in cooking; believed derived from the wild Allium ampeloprasum