trellis

1 of 2

noun

trel·​lis ˈtre-ləs How to pronounce trellis (audio)
1
: a frame of latticework used as a screen or as a support for climbing plants
2
: a construction (such as a summerhouse) chiefly of latticework
3
: an arrangement that forms or gives the effect of a lattice
a trellis of interlacing streams
trellised adjective

Illustration of trellis

Illustration of trellis
  • trellis 1

trellis

2 of 2

verb

trellised; trellising; trellises

transitive verb

1
: to provide with a trellis
especially : to train (a plant, such as a vine) on a trellis
2
: to cross or interlace on or through : interweave

Examples of trellis 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.
Noun
Some people use espaliers (shrubs trained to grow flat on trellises) on or alongside their fences. Neil Sperry, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Sep. 2025 The new chandelier, with its a modern, sophisticated design without a trellis can be found at the entrance to the banquet floor in The Okura Prestige Tower. Isabelle Kliger, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2025
Verb
Luckily, my pumpkin vine has naturally trellised itself over the neighboring bushes, but eventually, the gourds will drop and reach the soil. Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Aug. 2025 Soil pits, trellising design, canopy orientation and clonal selection will be shared with club members. Rachel King, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for trellis

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English trelis, from Anglo-French treleis, from Old French treille arbor, from Latin trichila summerhouse

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of trellis was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Trellis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trellis. Accessed 8 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

trellis

noun
trel·​lis
ˈtrel-əs
: a frame of lattice used especially as a screen or a support for climbing plants
trellised
ˈtrel-əst
adjective

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