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

Cedar, basswood, willow, and cottonwood will serve you much better than oak or other typical firewoods. — Tim MacWelch, Outdoor Life, 15 July 2026

The infested willow plants were sold in 15 counties, mostly across Southern and Central California between June 24 and July 3. — Grace Toohey, Los Angeles Times, 14 July 2026

The nutrient-rich formula features willow bark extract that is powerful enough to prevent flakiness and is effective at preventing inflammation. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 7 July 2026

Also called Eastern poplar, they’re related to willow trees, and their shallow roots can easily uproot sidewalks, driveways, foundations, and septic systems. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 2 July 2026

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

Rhymes for willow

• acknow
• aglow
• ago
• airglow
• aloe
• altho
• although
• ammo
• backflow
• backhoe
• banjo
• barbeau

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