withs
Definition
Noun (plural, also used as plural of with):
- Flexible twigs or branches: "withs" are long, pliable twigs or branches, typically from willow trees, used for tying or binding things together. They are often woven into baskets or used as cordage.
- A variant of "withes": In botany and craft contexts, "withs" is an alternative spelling of "withes," referring to the same flexible materials.
Noun (archaic/rare):
- A band or tie: In older English, "withs" could refer to a band or tie made from such twigs, used for securing objects.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The basket maker gathered fresh withs from the willow tree to weave a new basket. (Flexible twigs used for weaving.)
- He bound the bundle of sticks with strong withs. (Pliable branches used as ties.)
Advanced Usage
- "to bind with withs": to secure or fasten something using flexible twigs.
- In traditional construction, roof thatch was often bound with withs. (The thatch was tied in place using pliable willow branches.)
Variants and Related Words
Withy (n): a willow tree or its flexible branch; a synonym for "withs" in singular form.
- The withy was cut and soaked to make it more bendable. (The willow branch was prepared for use.)
Withe (n): a single flexible twig, especially of willow; "withs" is the plural form.
- A single withe can be used to tie a plant to a stake. (One flexible twig serves as a fastener.)
Synonyms
- Twigs: small, thin branches from trees or shrubs.
- Osiers: willow branches used in basket-making.
- Vines: climbing or trailing plants with flexible stems (can be used similarly).
Related Idioms
Phrasal Verbs