trellis

1 of 2

noun

trel·​lis ˈtre-ləs 

1

: a frame of latticework used as a screen or as a support for climbing plants

2

: a construction (such as a summerhouse) chiefly of latticework

3

: an arrangement that forms or gives the effect of a lattice

a trellis of interlacing streams

trellised

ˈtre-ləst 

adjective

Illustration of trellis

• trellis 1

trellis

2 of 2

verb

trellised; trellising; trellises

transitive verb

1

: to provide with a trellis

especially : to train (a plant, such as a vine) on a trellis

2

: to cross or interlace on or through : interweave

Examples of trellis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Space cucamelon plants 12 to 18 inches apart at the base of a tall support, such as a trellis or fence. — Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 21 July 2026

Fill in blank spots in your garden beds with either bush and pole beans, which need a trellis for support. — Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 19 July 2026

Verb

Ways to prolong your cucumber harvest include proper pruning and trellising, applying balanced fertilizer regularly throughout the growing season, frequent harvesting, and consistent watering. — Alexandra Jones, The Spruce, 20 July 2026

Plus, many vining plants are fast-growing, and trellising them on a support can control their growth and prevent them from taking over the garden. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 27 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English trelis, from Anglo-French treleis, from Old French treille arbor, from Latin trichila summerhouse

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for trellis

• bellis
• felis
• fellas
• jealous
• pelisse
• zealous
• michaelis
• nucellus
• ocellus
• overzealous

Kids Definition

trellis

noun

trel·​lis

ˈtrel-əs

: a frame of lattice used especially as a screen or a support for climbing plants

trellised

ˈtrel-əst

adjective