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

Coupled with gently exfoliating willow bark extract, hyaluronic acid’s humectant properties help draw moisture into lips for a subtle plumping effect. —Emily Orofino, Vogue, 21 Oct. 2024

The field was covered in a patchwork of tall grasses, dense willows, and milo (a corn-like stalky plant that produces bird seed). —Wes Siler, Outside Online, 17 Oct. 2024

This sulfate-free Thickening Shampoo strengthens your hair from your scalp to the ends with deep-penetrating ingredients such as flax protein (to prevent hair breakage), willow bark for gentle exfoliation, and loquat leaf, a traditional Asian plant that boosts thickness. —Sarah Madaus, Allure, 16 Oct. 2024

The sap groove prevents sticky buildup, which is perfect for working on resinous plants like creosote bush, aspen, desert willows, birch, and alder. —Kristin Guy, Sunset Magazine, 15 Oct. 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