olive branch

noun

1

: a branch of the olive tree especially when used as a symbol of peace

2

: an offer or gesture of conciliation or goodwill

Examples of olive branch in a Sentence

The winner extended an olive branch to his opponent by calling him a great player.

Recent Examples on the Web

Hook hopes an induction could perhaps serve as an olive branch between the two factions. —Devon Ivie, Vulture, 2 Apr. 2026

But before leaving, Genevieve sends an olive branch to Aubry in the form of her red pea coat. —Stephanie Petit, PEOPLE, 2 Apr. 2026

Sunday's celebration began with a procession of cardinals, bishops, priests and laypeople walking into the square carrying olive branches and palm fronds, some intricately braided. —ABC News, 29 Mar. 2026

The Roosevelt dime, which has been circulated since 1946, features his profile on the front and a torch, olive branch and oak branch on the back to represent liberty, peace and strength. —Jeanine Santucci, USA Today, 14 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for olive branch

• avalanche
• blanch
• cranch
• ranch
• stanch
• tranche

Kids Definition

olive branch

noun

1

: a branch of the olive tree especially when used as a symbol of peace

2

: something meant to show intentions of peace or goodwill

made a call to his former friend as an olive branch