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

Examples of willow in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Other recommendations include low-water plantings like agave, desert willow, and native grasses to add texture without demanding maintenance. — Terri Williams, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026

In our area oaks, maples, willows, cherry and elms have more of a tendency to form burls than other tree species. — Pamm Cooper, Hartford Courant, 25 July 2026

To take a lazy float in incredibly scenic surroundings, spend one to two hours floating atop a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard through willow marsh within the Lolo Forest. — Terry Ward, Travel + Leisure, 25 July 2026

Cedar, basswood, willow, and cottonwood will serve you much better than oak or other typical firewoods. — Tim MacWelch, Outdoor Life, 15 July 2026

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

Rhymes for willow

• acknow
• aglow
• ago
• airglow
• aloe
• altho
• although
• ammo
• backflow
• backhoe
• banjo
• barbeau

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