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

Gone are the days of simply stuffing a pretzel into your face while waiting in line. —Annemarie Dooling, Bon Appetit Magazine, 25 June 2025

Scoop it up with potato chips, fresh veggies, or pretzels—or get creative and use it in place of mayo on your next turkey sandwich. —Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 June 2025

This yellow cab charm in particular is an appropriate symbol of the city: right up there with a pretzel and a pigeon. —Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 29 May 2025

Broil until pretzels are slightly toasted, 1 to 2 minutes. —Karla Walsh, CNN Money, 14 May 2025

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

Rhymes for pretzel

• quetzal

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.