trellis

1 of 2

noun

trel·​lis ˈtre-ləs 

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

ˈtre-ləst 

adjective

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

Noun

Indeterminate tomatoes need strong stakes, cages, or trellises for support due to their continuous growth and vining habit. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 22 June 2026

Sweet Peas Encouraging climbing sweet peas to grow up trellises around your patio or walled courtyard will fill the space with vivid color and nostalgic sweet floral notes with subtle hints of honey and orange blossom. — Gemma Johnstone, The Spruce, 22 June 2026

Verb

The food hall also has an outdoor area with a bar, fire pit and trellised seating area, according to a press announcement. — Kate Bradshaw, Mercury News, 16 June 2026

Tall plants with large, heavy fruit or flowers require cages, stakes, or trellising to thrive. — Alexandra Jones, The Spruce, 6 June 2026

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

Rhymes for trellis

• bellis
• felis
• fellas
• jealous
• pelisse
• zealous
• michaelis
• nucellus
• ocellus
• overzealous

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