noun
willow
WIL-oh/ˈwɪləʊ/
A tree or shrub with narrow leaves and flexible branches.
A willow grows beside the pond, its narrow leaves trembling.
Etymology
Old English welig named the same pliant-branched tree. Its name probably has a deeper connection with turning or curving, an association that fits the willow's flexible growth.
In context
to his mate all have returned dust unto dust I laughed aloud and slid down into the water but at the same moment I caught hold of one of the willow branches hanging above the yellow waves
More examples
- Several willows shade the path along the creek.
- She bends flexible willow branches into a basket.
- This low-growing willow fits well in our small garden.
Forms
willow · willows
willowy adjective — Tall, slender, and graceful in appearance.