# wreath

/ˈɹiθ/ (US) · /ɹˈiːθ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/wreath
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. circular decoration

noun · CEFR B2

a circle of leaves or flowers that you hang on a door or use as a decoration.

For teachers: an ornamental circular band of flowers, leaves, or other materials, frequently used for festive decoration.

- Every December, they hang a beautiful green wreath on their front door.
- The villagers constructed a large wreath of holly and ivy to display in the town square during the winter festival.

### 2. funeral or memorial tribute

noun · CEFR B2

a circle of flowers given to show respect for someone who has died.

For teachers: a circular floral arrangement placed at a grave or memorial as a mark of respect or mourning.

- The soldiers laid a wreath at the monument to remember those lost in the war.
- Dignitaries from several nations gathered to lay wreaths at the base of the cenotaph during the annual remembrance ceremony.

### 3. a curl or twist

noun · CEFR C1 · Literary

a shape that is twisted or curled, like a ring of smoke.

For teachers: a curling or circular shape formed by smoke, mist, or similar substances.

- Thin wreaths of smoke rose from the chimney into the cold morning air.
- As the sun began to rise, delicate wreaths of mist drifted across the surface of the silent lake.

## Examples

- She hung a beautiful Christmas wreath on the front door.
- The president laid a wreath at the monument to honor the fallen soldiers.
- The ancient stone carvings depicted figures wearing a wreath of laurel leaves, symbolizing victory and high social status in the classical world.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.