willow

noun

wil·​low ˈwi-(ˌ)lō 

1

: any of a genus (Salix of the family Salicaceae, the willow family) of trees and shrubs bearing catkins of apetalous flowers and including forms of value for wood, osiers, or tanbark and a few ornamentals

2

: an object made of willow wood

especially : a cricket bat

willowlike

ˈwi-lō-ˌlīk 

adjective

Examples of willow in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The entanglement ensues … And then...Jaden and willow had a performance at wireless fest in London and jada came and August came to support Jaden and willow. —Zoe Guy, Vulture, 15 Apr. 2024

During cold weather the moisture precipitates out of the air onto every branch and willow bush, coating them in a layer of hoar frost. —Seth Adams, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 May 2023

The fact that it’s survived all these varied elements is a testament to the strength and durability of rattan, willow, bamboo and spray paint. —Sherry Kuehl, Kansas City Star, 5 June 2024

The wetland attracts birds, such as coots and tricolored blackbirds, and also recharges the aquifer that the roots of cottonwoods and willows tap into. —Ian James, Los Angeles Times, 26 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English wilghe, wilowe, from Old English welig; akin to Middle High German wilge willow

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing willow

• weeping willow
• willow herb

Kids Definition

willow

noun

wil·​low ˈwil-ō 

: any of a genus of trees and shrubs that often have narrow leaves, produce catkins for flowers, and include some used for their wood, for making baskets, or as ornamentals

willowlike

-ˌlīk 

adjective