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

Herbs that lower blood sugar: Some studies indicate that taking annatto extract with certain herbs, such as bitter melon, ginger, fenugreek, and willow bark, may increase the risk of hypoglycemia. —Devineé Lingo, M.s., Health, 21 Dec. 2024

But there are several good candidates riding herd along other water-loving species like willow and bald cypress. —Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Sep. 2024

Ingredients like white willow bark extract, pink clay, and pomegranate enzymes chemically exfoliate while softening. —Annie Blackman, Allure, 16 Sep. 2024

This combination of olive, willow, and reed wood, is also an interesting choice of materials. —Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 5 Dec. 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