wreathe

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verb \ˈrēth\

Definition of wreathe

wreathed

;

wreathing

transitive verb
1a : to shape into a wreathb : interweavec : to cause to coil about something
2 : to twist or contort so as to show folds or creases
3 : to encircle or adorn with or as if with a wreath
intransitive verb
1 : to twist in coils : writhe
2a : to take on the shape of a wreathb : to move or extend in circles or spirals

See wreathe defined for English-language learners

See wreathe defined for kids

Examples of wreathe in a Sentence

decided to wreathe the grapevines into a beribboned swag to give the room the “country look”
wreathed small flowers into the design for the wallpaper

Recent Examples of wreathe from the Web

Out in the parking lot, wreathed in the citrusy odor of the sunscreen four young men are slathering on their torsos before heading across Ocean Avenue, some of those who've opted out explain why.

— Time, "Where Did America's Summer Jobs Go?", 29 June 2017
The walk up the steps to the Royal Box after the game, the losing team’s faces locked in grief, the winners’ wreathed in smiles.

— rory smith, New York Times, "On-Field Drama, Not Fireworks, Will Keep the F.A. Cup Relevant", 27 May 2017
Here is an excerpt from the May 7, 1885, edition of The Bee: Mrs. Crocker, her face wreathed in smiles of happiness, arose and bowed to the audience, which returned the courtesy with cheers and the slapping of thousands of hands.

— sacbee, "1885: Flowery tribute for Crocker gallery donation", 26 Apr. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'wreathe'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of wreathe

wreath

NEW!

First Known Use: 1530

See Words from the same year

WREATHE Defined for English Language Learners

wreathe

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verb

Definition of wreathe for English Language Learners

: to surround or cover (something)

WREATHE Defined for Kids

wreathe

play

verb \ˈrēth\

Definition of wreathe for Students

wreathed

;

wreathing

1 : to form into wreaths Evergreen branches were wreathed and hung.
2 : to crown, decorate, or cover with or as if with a wreath The girls … wreathed their hair with … blossoms. — Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Avonlea