lath

noun

ˈlath How to pronounce lath (audio)
 also  ˈlat͟h
plural laths or lath
1
: a thin narrow strip of wood nailed to rafters, joists, or studding as a groundwork for slates, tiles, or plaster
2
: a building material in sheets used as a base for plaster
3
: a quantity of laths
lath transitive verb

Examples of lath 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 gilded latticework trimming the balconies around the entrance appeared to be crumbling off, and large stretches of colorful plasterwork have worn away to reveal the chalky gray of lath and structural wood. Carl David Goette-Luciak, Miami Herald, 23 July 2025 By the 21st century, the fundamental problem was that the building, including the redwood laths, had deteriorated. Caron Golden, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 June 2025 The laths reduce sunlight to protect plants and facilitate air flow. Caron Golden, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 June 2025 Fun facts: Built as part of the Panama-California Exposition, the Botanical Building is one of the largest wood lath structures in the world. Kate Murphy, Axios, 26 Nov. 2024 See All Example Sentences for lath

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English *læthth-; akin to Old High German latta lath, Welsh llath yard

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lath was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lath.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lath. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

lath

noun
ˈlath How to pronounce lath (audio)
 also  ˈlat͟h
plural laths or lath
: a thin narrow strip of wood used especially as a base for plaster
lath verb

More from Merriam-Webster on lath

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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