Definition

A thin, twisting part of a plant that helps it cling to something for support, like a vine or a climbing plant.

Example

The grapevine's tendrils wrapped around the trellis for support.

Conversation

Have you seen that plant in my living room with the curly tendril?

Yeah, it looks really interesting!

I love how it wraps around the shelf; it adds some character.

For sure! Plants with tendrils always make a room feel more alive.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tendril → The word originates from Middle English 'tendril' (meaning a small, slender, curling plant part), which comes from Old French 'tendril' (meaning a vine shoot), derived from the Latin 'tendicula' (meaning a small stretch or tendril, from 'tendere' meaning to stretch). A tendril is a slender, threadlike part of a climbing plant that helps it to attach and support itself.

Memory Tip

Imagine a small, slender part of a plant that 'stretches' to find support — that's what a tendril does.

Visually Confused Words