pretzel

noun

pret·​zel ˈpret-səl 

: a brittle or chewy glazed usually salted slender bread often shaped like a loose knot

Examples of pretzel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Savor a delectable array of traditional German treats, from bratwurst and pretzels to sweet pastries and mulled wine, all while enjoying the sounds of live, mesmerizing music that fills the air. —Kirby Adams, The Courier-Journal, 5 Dec. 2024

Remove the pan from the oven and carefully place a slice of provolone on each pretzel, tearing the slices to fit. —Christine Rousselle, Fox News, 24 Nov. 2024

Kimball said the idea was to create a nutritional alternative to the high-carb snacks, like crackers and pretzels, people typically reach for in a pinch. —Jenna Anderson, Health, 4 Nov. 2024

Golden Hay Time is a riff on a classic Australian ice-cream bar with toasted hay and grilled pretzel ice cream. —Tori Latham, Robb Report, 17 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

German Brezel, ultimately from Latin brachiatus having branches like arms, from brachium arm — more at brace entry 2

First Known Use

1831, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

pretzel

noun

pret·​zel ˈpret-səl 

: a brown cracker that is salted and usually hard and shaped like a loose knot

Etymology

from German Brezel "pretzel," derived from Latin brachiatus (adjective) "having branches like arms," from brachium, "arm" — related to brace entry 2

Word Origin

Pretzels were probably first made in the U.S. during the 19th century by immigrants from Germany. The English word pretzel comes from the German Brezel. The familiar knot-shaped pretzel has been known in Germanic countries for centuries. Its German name comes from the Latin brachiatus, which means "having branches like arms." The pretzel likely got its name because its knot shape looks something like a pair of folded arms.