wreath

noun

plural wreaths ˈrēt͟hz How to pronounce wreath (audio) ˈrēths How to pronounce wreath (audio)
1
: something intertwined or arranged in a circular shape: such as
a
: a decorative arrangement of foliage or flowers on a circular base
a Christmas wreath
b
: a band of intertwined flowers or leaves worn as a mark of honor or victory : garland
a laurel wreath
2
: something having a circular or coiling form
a wreath of smoke

Examples of wreath in a Sentence

The President laid a wreath of flowers on the hero's grave. The ancient Romans awarded laurel wreaths to winners of athletic contests. Every December, I put a Christmas wreath on my front door.
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.
Including a wreath from Joanna Gaines’ collection. Shea Simmons, Southern Living, 5 Sep. 2025 Scatter them on the mantel freestyle, or weave them into a garland or wreath that could use a little fall flair. Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Sep. 2025 This year, that plan brought me to Target’s wide range of fall decor, where decorative pillows, throw blankets, wreaths, and more pieces from popular brands like Hearth & Hand by Magnolia and Threshold Designed by Studio McGee start at just $5. Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 4 Sep. 2025 This charming, walkable area feels like it’s frozen in time, lined with brick pavers and original Georgian-style red brick homes — many adorned in autumn wreaths and flower boxes or delightfully spooky decor. Charlotte Observer, 26 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for wreath

Word History

Etymology

Middle English wrethe, from Old English writha; akin to Old English wrīthan to twist — more at writhe

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of wreath was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Wreath.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wreath. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

wreath

noun
plural wreaths ˈrēt͟hz How to pronounce wreath (audio) ˈrēths How to pronounce wreath (audio)
: something twisted or woven into a circular shape
a wreath of flowers

More from Merriam-Webster on wreath

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