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espalier

noun es·pal·ier \ i-ˈspal-yər , -ˌyā \
Updated on: 5 May 2018
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Definition of espalier

1 : a plant (such as a fruit tree) trained to grow flat against a support (such as a wall)
2 : a railing or trellis on which fruit trees or shrubs are trained to grow flat

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Origin and Etymology of espalier

French, ultimately from Italian spalla shoulder, from Late Latin spatula shoulder blade — more at epaulet

2

espalier

verb

Definition of espalier

transitive verb
1 : to train as an espalier
2 : to furnish with an espalier

Recent Examples of espalier from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'espalier.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of espalier

1810

in the meaning defined at sense 1

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Learn More about espalier

  1. See words that rhyme with espalier Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about espalier

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