A reed is a tall, grass-like plant with a hollow, flexible stem that grows in wetlands, along riverbanks, and at the edges of ponds. Reeds can grow six feet tall or higher, swaying and rustling in the wind. Their stems are strong yet bendable, making them useful for weaving baskets, making thatched roofs, or even building small boats.

Throughout history, people have used reeds in clever ways. Ancient Egyptians made a writing material called papyrus from papyrus reeds. Some cultures still use reeds to make traditional musical instruments: the mouthpieces of clarinets, saxophones, and oboes contain thin pieces of reed that vibrate when you blow into them, creating sound. You might see reeds growing thickly along a creek, providing homes and hiding spots for birds, frogs, and fish.

The word can also describe something weak or easily swayed, like when we say someone is “as thin as a reed” or call an argument a “broken reed” because it won't support any weight.