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

Save to wishlist Medicube Zero Pore Pads Plant extracts like cypress leaf and skullcap help balance oil and prevent future congestion, while willow bark extract and salicylic acid clear out dead skin and visibly tighten pores. — Kiana Murden, Vogue, 8 Sep. 2026

By late October or early November, cottonwoods and willows around Bishop and the Owens Valley may still be turning. — Stefanie Waldek, Travel + Leisure, 6 Sep. 2026

The corner of the yard, shaded by mesquite and shoestring willows, had fallen conspicuously quiet. — Alex Wigglesworth, Los Angeles Times, 3 Sep. 2026

Oleanders and willows are brave souls, with pioneering spirits. — Literary Hub, 3 Sep. 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