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

This Amazon wreath is both pretty and rustic, with clusters of red and pink berries alternating around a grapevine halo. —Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Feb. 2026

There are speeches, and wreaths are laid. —Andy Mitten, New York Times, 7 Feb. 2026

One candidate showed up on colorful roller skates wearing a wreath of flowers on her head. —Los Angeles Times, 7 Feb. 2026

The ceremony included a color guard, chaplain, a brass quintet, a 21-gun salute, and the placing of an official White House wreath on President Reagan’s gravesite. —Staff Report, Daily News, 6 Feb. 2026

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