lattice

noun

lat·​tice ˈla-təs How to pronounce lattice (audio)
1
a
: a framework or structure of crossed wood or metal strips
b
: a window, door, or gate having a lattice
c
: a network or design resembling a lattice
2
: a regular geometrical arrangement of points or objects over an area or in space
specifically : the arrangement of atoms in a crystal
3
: a mathematical set that has some elements ordered and that is such that for any two elements there exists a greatest element in the subset of all elements less than or equal to both and a least element in the subset of all elements greater than or equal to both
lattice transitive verb
latticed adjective

Examples of lattice in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The faith in order and proportion embodied in the Alhambra, the romance of modernity caught in the Eiffel Tower’s lattice of iron—these are not ideas imposed on buildings but ideals that the buildings themselves express, more lastingly than words can. Adam Gopnik, New Yorker, 25 Oct. 2025 The research team underlined that their real-world tests are supported by a comprehensive theoretical and computational model, which can accurately predict the complex behavior, of twisting gyroid lattices under different strain rates. Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 25 Oct. 2025 The pair comes in unisex sizing and utilizes a unique lattice-style construction which allows for high levels of breathability while maintaining comfort and structure. Riley Jones, Footwear News, 22 Oct. 2025 Why Espaliered Trees Need Extra Support Espaliered trees, like Stewart’s columnar European hornbeams (Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata'), are trained to grow flat against walls using trellises or lattices. Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for lattice

Word History

Etymology

Middle English latis, from Anglo-French latiz

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of lattice was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lattice.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lattice. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

lattice

noun
lat·​tice ˈlat-əs How to pronounce lattice (audio)
1
a
: a framework or structure of crossed wood or metal strips
b
: a window, door, or gate having a lattice
2
: an arrangement of points or objects that is evenly spaced over an area or throughout a volume
the lattice of atoms in a crystal
latticed adjective

Medical Definition

lattice

noun
lat·​tice ˈlat-əs How to pronounce lattice (audio)
: a regular geometrical arrangement of points or objects over an area or in space: as
a
: the geometrical arrangement of atoms in a crystal

called also space lattice

b
: a geometrical arrangement of fissionable material in a nuclear reactor

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