trellis

[ trel-is ]

noun

1. a frame or structure of latticework; lattice.
2. a framework of this kind used as a support for growing vines or plants.
3. a summerhouse, gazebo, arch, etc., made chiefly or completely of latticework.
4. Heraldry. a charge of bendlets overlying bendlets sinister, the whole being cloué at the crossings.

verb (used with object)

1. to furnish with a trellis.
2. to enclose in a trellis.
3. to train or support on a trellis.
4. to form into or like a trellis.

trellis

/ ˈtrɛlɪs /

noun

1. a structure or pattern of latticework, esp one used to support climbing plants
2. an arch made of latticework

verb

1. to interweave (strips of wood, etc) to make a trellis
2. to provide or support with a trellis

Derived Forms

• ˈtrellis-ˌlike, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of trellis¹

1350–1400; Middle English trelis < Middle French (noun) < Late Latin trilīcius (for Latin trilīx ) woven with three threads, equivalent to Latin tri- tri- + līci ( um ) thread + -us adj. suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of trellis¹

C14: from Old French treliz fabric of open texture, from Late Latin trilīcius woven with three threads, from Latin tri- + līcium thread

Example Sentences

Perea also likes the idea of growing native Roger’s Red grapes on trellises in large containers to provide summer greenery, fall color when the leaves turn red and gold, and sculptural vines in the winter.

From Los Angeles Times

“Instead of putting up a trellis where plants climb up, we thought ‘Why don’t we plant it on top and have it climb down,’ ” Johnsen said.

From Seattle Times

“It’s what you would buy if you were going to grow a couple of tomatoes and maybe a miniature eggplant on a trellis on your patio.”

From Los Angeles Times

The famous trellises of the city hung heavy with grapes.

From Literature

Because sweet potatoes have a vining habit, Sparks says they can be trellised to be less messy.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• arbor
• lattice