pretzel

noun

pret·​zel ˈpret-səl 

: a brittle or chewy glazed usually salted slender bread often shaped like a loose knot

Examples of pretzel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The marshmallow-test publications speak about the treats offered to the kids abstractly—a marshmallow, a small pretzel—when the specifics matter. —Ian Bogost, The Atlantic, 16 June 2026

On social media, the LIBS were twisted into a pretzel trying to defend their candidates. —Joe Kinsey Outkick, FOXNews.com, 16 June 2026

There will also be concession stands offering both free and premium snacks such as popcorn, soft pretzels and candied warm nuts, plus a dedicated game-day food menu from hotel restaurant Proper Grit. —Rod Stafford Hagwood, Sun Sentinel, 16 June 2026

The event features unlimited pepperoni and cheese pizza, smashed burger sliders, crispy chicken bites, garlic butter pretzel sticks, fries and fruit, and winners can win free Dave & Buster's gameplay for a year. —Finch Walker, USA Today, 15 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

German Brezel, ultimately from Latin brachiatus having branches like arms, from brachium arm — more at brace entry 2

First Known Use

1831, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

pretzel

noun

pret·​zel ˈpret-səl 

: a brown cracker that is salted and usually hard and shaped like a loose knot

Etymology

from German Brezel "pretzel," derived from Latin brachiatus (adjective) "having branches like arms," from brachium, "arm" — related to brace entry 2

Word Origin

Pretzels were probably first made in the U.S. during the 19th century by immigrants from Germany. The English word pretzel comes from the German Brezel. The familiar knot-shaped pretzel has been known in Germanic countries for centuries. Its German name comes from the Latin brachiatus, which means "having branches like arms." The pretzel likely got its name because its knot shape looks something like a pair of folded arms.