chicken wire

noun

: a light galvanized wire netting of hexagonal mesh

Examples of chicken wire in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Early cages were constructed from chicken wire, until steel began to be used around the ’80s. Harmeet Kaur, CNN Money, 28 May 2026 The experts shared that chicken wire, metal sheeting, garden netting, fences, and hardware cloths are all great defenses. Melissa Epifano, The Spruce, 28 May 2026 Attach chicken wire or twine to the frame, then train climbing plants like peas or ivy to grow through and around it. Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Kansas City Star, 23 Apr. 2026 Attach chicken wire or twine across the opening and train climbing plants like peas or ivy to grow through it. Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Charlotte Observer, 23 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for chicken wire

Word History

Etymology

from its use for making enclosures for chickens

First Known Use

1887, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of chicken wire was in 1887

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Chicken wire.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chicken%20wire. Accessed 1 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

chicken wire

noun
: a light wire fencing with hexagonal openings
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