wreath

noun

ˈrēth 

plural wreaths ˈrēt͟hz  ˈrēths 

1

: something intertwined or arranged in a circular shape: such as

a

: a decorative arrangement of foliage or flowers on a circular base

a Christmas wreath

b

: a band of intertwined flowers or leaves worn as a mark of honor or victory : garland

a laurel wreath

2

: something having a circular or coiling form

a wreath of smoke

Examples of wreath in a Sentence

The President laid a wreath of flowers on the hero's grave.

The ancient Romans awarded laurel wreaths to winners of athletic contests.

Every December, I put a Christmas wreath on my front door.

Recent Examples on the Web

Staff will show participants how to make an indoor spring floral wreath using cardboard egg cartons. —Joe Rassel, Orlando Sentinel, 19 Mar. 2025

Keep reading for more spring wreaths on sale ahead of spring at Wayfair. —Miles Walls, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Mar. 2025

Archaeologists found a wide variety of artifacts inside the 2,400-year-old tomb, including a gold ring with a semi-precious stone, two gold coins and several gold leaves from a wreath. —Aspen Pflughoeft, Miami Herald, 12 Mar. 2025

These spiced cookies were shaped like miniature wreaths and finished with white chocolate and red-and-green sprinkles. —Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 14 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English wrethe, from Old English writha; akin to Old English wrīthan to twist — more at writhe

First Known Use

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

Phrases Containing wreath

• Advent wreath
• bridal wreath

Rhymes for wreath

• neath
• sheath
• teeth
• beneath
• bequeath
• underneath

Kids Definition

wreath

noun

ˈrēth 

plural wreaths ˈrēt͟hz  ˈrēths 

: something twisted or woven into a circular shape

a wreath of flowers