trellis
TREH-lis
/ˈtrɛlɪs/
A framework of light wooden or metal bars, chiefly used as a support for fruit trees or climbing plants.
Implies a lattice-like structure specifically designed to train and support climbing plants.
The story behind the word. Derived via Old French 'trellis' from the Latin 'trilix', meaning triple-twilled. This refers to the woven, crisscrossed pattern of the wooden slats that make up the structure.
Word relationships
- lattice: Lattice refers to any crisscrossed pattern of wood or metal, while a trellis is specifically intended to support plants.
- arbor: An arbor is a shaded leafy shelter or passageway, often incorporating a trellis, but is a larger architectural feature.
Commonly confused with
- pergola: A pergola is an outdoor garden feature forming a shaded pathway, whereas a trellis is a flat support structure.
Word family
- trellised (adjective): Supported by or trained on a trellis.
- trellising (noun): The material or structure of a trellis.
Collocations
- wooden trellis
- garden trellis
- trellis system
Example sentences
- "The heavy grape clusters hung down from the wooden trellis." Vineyard description
- "They built a beautiful metal trellis to support the climbing roses." Garden design article
Memory hook
Trellis looks like a railway track ('rail') stood upright to help plants climb. Trellis trains climbing plants.
When not to use
Do not use for solid fences or simple single stakes.
Fun facts
- In modern viticulture, trellis systems are engineered with precise mathematical angles to maximize the leaves' exposure to sunlight at specific times of the day.
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