willow

noun

wil·​low ˈwi-(ˌ)lō 

1

: any of a genus (Salix of the family Salicaceae, the willow family) of trees and shrubs bearing catkins of apetalous flowers and including forms of value for wood, osiers, or tanbark and a few ornamentals

2

: an object made of willow wood

especially : a cricket bat

willowlike

ˈwi-lō-ˌlīk 

adjective

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

Southwestern willow flycatcher protected along San Pedro river Usually smaller than six inches, this little bird plays a big role in controlling insect populations around wetlands and waterways. —Jake Frederico, The Arizona Republic, 3 Mar. 2023

Through a blend of pomegranate enzymes, willow bark extract, pink clay, and other powerhouse botanicals, this mask promises to transform dull skin. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 22 Feb. 2023

Its Purifying Amethyst Shampoo is infused with amethyst extracts, along with ingredients like ginseng, willow bark and hibiscus to minimize scalp irritation. —Harper's BAZAAR, 18 Feb. 2023

The work, namely noise from the helicopter, also can't interrupt the breeding season for the Mexican spotted owl, the southwestern willow flycatcher and other endangered species. —CBS News, 17 Feb. 2023

White willow bark is thought to soothe the joint pain associated with osteoarthritis, while devil's claw is used to reduce pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis. —Verywell Health, 14 Feb. 2023

Start with the Essentials Skin Care Travel Kit, which includes a face wash with energizing peppermint, a shaving gel made with willow bark and floral extracts, and a collagen moisturizer. —Paris Wilson, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Feb. 2023

Its effects are enhanced by the inclusion of white willow bark and caffeine, both of which have their own pain-relieving properties. —Dallas News, 21 Dec. 2022

In response, some native birds — like the Southwestern willow flycatcher, which loves dense shrubs along desert waterways — turned to tamarisk trees to make their nests. —Katherine Mast, Discover Magazine, 19 Mar. 2019

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Word History

Etymology

Middle English wilghe, wilowe, from Old English welig; akin to Middle High German wilge willow

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing willow

• weeping willow
• willow herb

• weeping willow
• willow herb

Kids Definition

willow

noun

wil·​low ˈwil-ō 

: any of a genus of trees and shrubs that often have narrow leaves, produce catkins for flowers, and include some used for their wood, for making baskets, or as ornamentals

willowlike

-ˌlīk 

adjective