laurel Definition

laurel
noun

1. A small evergreen tree with smooth dark shiny leaves that are used for flavouring in cooking and sometimes medicinally.

Form: bay tree (also)
Form: sweet bay tree
Form: bay laurel
2. A crown of laurel leaves worn as a symbol of victory or mark of honour.
3. Honour; praise.

Form: laurels

Idiom: look to one's laurels

To beware of losing one's reputation by being outclassed.

Idiom: rest on one's laurels

To be satisfied with one's past successes and so not bother to achieve anything more.

Etymology: 14c: from Latin laurus.