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

This year’s outdoor fall decor runs the gamut from classic pumpkins and colorful wreaths to lanterns, doormats and pieces that lean more neutral than traditional orange and black. — ABC News, 24 Sep. 2026

Flower wreaths lined the wall outside the Hong Kong Funeral Home, and Tung’s casket was draped in a Chinese flag when it was brought out after the service. — Los Angeles Times, 21 Sep. 2026

From decorative rugs and pillows to throws and wreaths, the options are endless for easy and inexpensive ways to transform your space. — Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 20 Sep. 2026

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