'parsley-like' originates from Modern English, formed from the noun 'parsley' plus the adjectival suffix '-like', where 'parsley' ultimately comes from Latin 'petroselinum' and '-like' comes from Old English '-līc' meaning 'having the form of'.

'parsley' changed from Old English 'persil' (via Middle English 'persley') and eventually became the modern English word 'parsley'; the suffix '-līc' in Old English evolved into the Modern English suffix '-like', producing compounds such as 'parsley-like'.

Initially, elements meant 'the plant petroselinum' and 'having the form of'; over time they combined to mean 'resembling parsley' in appearance, smell, or taste, which is the current usage.