n.1 a tree or shrub of the genus Salix, growing usu. near water in temperate climates, with small flowers borne on catkins, and pliant branches yielding osiers and timber for cricket-bats, baskets, etc.
2 a cricket-bat.
Phrases and idioms:
willow grouse a common European grouse, Lagopus lagopus, with brown breeding plumage and white winter plumage. willow-herb any plant of the genus Epilobium etc., esp. one with leaves like a willow and pale purple flowers. willow-pattern a conventional design representing a Chinese scene, often with a willow tree, of blue on white porcelain, stoneware, or earthenware. willow-warbler (or -wren) a small woodland bird, Phylloscopus trochilus, with a tuneful song.
Etymology: OE welig