trellis

1 of 2

noun

trel·​lis ˈtre-ləs How to pronounce trellis (audio)
Synonyms of trellisnext
1
: a frame of latticework used as a screen or as a support for climbing plants
2
: a construction (such as a summerhouse) chiefly of latticework
3
: an arrangement that forms or gives the effect of a lattice
a trellis of interlacing streams
trellised
ˈtre-ləst How to pronounce trellis (audio)
adjective

Illustration of trellis

Illustration of trellis
  • trellis 1

trellis

2 of 2

verb

trellised; trellising; trellises

transitive verb

1
: to provide with a trellis
especially : to train (a plant, such as a vine) on a trellis
2
: to cross or interlace on or through : interweave

Examples of trellis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Single specimens will reach 4-6 feet tall and spread 10-20 feet on a trellis, ideally supported with metal posts or 4×4’s. — Joshua Siskin, Orange County Register, 14 Mar. 2025 Plants supported by a trellis or cage can be spaced closer together than unsupported plants, as their growth is directed upward. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 9 Mar. 2025
Verb
Staking, trellising, and caging are different training methods used to support tomato plants and their heavy fruit loads. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 9 Mar. 2025 So, here are a few guidelines to holding a wine tasting for people who have a general knowledge and interest in wine rather than those who consider discussion of Ph levels and vine trellising fit conversation at a party. — John Mariani, Forbes, 8 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for trellis

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English trelis, from Anglo-French treleis, from Old French treille arbor, from Latin trichila summerhouse

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of trellis was in the 14th century

Rhymes for trellis

See All Rhymes for trellis

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trellis
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Cite this Entry

“Trellis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trellis. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

trellis

noun
trel·​lis
ˈtrel-əs
: a frame of lattice used especially as a screen or a support for climbing plants
trellised
ˈtrel-əst
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on trellis

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for trellis

Nglish: Translation of trellis for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about trellis

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