wreath

noun

ˈrēth 

plural wreaths ˈrēt͟hz  ˈrēths 

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

Two bells chimed during the ceremony and there was a wreath-laying at the Flight 93 memorial. — Kaanita Iyer, CNN Money, 11 Sep. 2026

An American flag hung over the silent crowd as bell tolls marked the exact times the World Trade Center Towers were struck and a wreath was laid to honor the lives lost. — Addison Wright, Chicago Tribune, 11 Sep. 2026

Patricia Cahill Hoban, who lost her brother John Cahill in the attacks, laid a wreath at the memorial with her husband, Bob. — Miles J. Herszenhorn, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2026

Crafter’s Square Fall Ribbon 9-ft Roll Adding ribbon and bows is one of the easiest ways to elevate a gift, arrangement, or wreath. — Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 9 Sep. 2026

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

Phrases Containing wreath

• Advent wreath
• bridal wreath

Rhymes for wreath

• sheath
• teeth
• beneath
• bequeath
• underneath

Kids Definition

wreath

noun

ˈrēth 

plural wreaths ˈrēt͟hz  ˈrēths 

: something twisted or woven into a circular shape

a wreath of flowers