# laurel

/ˈɫɔɹəɫ/ (US) · /lˈɔːɹəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/laurel
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. the plant

noun · CEFR B2

a small evergreen tree with smooth, shiny leaves that smell nice.

For teachers: an evergreen shrub or small tree, Laurus nobilis, characterized by aromatic, lanceolate leaves.

- We planted a laurel hedge along the garden fence for privacy.
- The gardener pruned the laurel carefully to maintain its shape while preserving the aromatic quality of the new growth.

### 2. symbol of victory

noun · CEFR C1 · Literary

a circle of leaves worn on the head as a sign of honor or winning.

For teachers: a wreath or crown woven from laurel leaves, traditionally awarded as a mark of distinction or victory.

- In ancient times, the winner of the race was given a laurel.
- The poet was depicted in the marble bust wearing a laurel, signifying his status as the nation's preeminent writer.

### 3. honor or fame

noun · CEFR C1 · Literary

praise or success that you have earned.

For teachers: honor, distinction, or fame achieved through specific accomplishments; frequently used in the plural.

- The young scientist won many laurels for her groundbreaking research.
- Despite his many laurels in the field of physics, he remained a remarkably humble man who avoided the spotlight.

### 4. to honor

verb · CEFR C2 · Formal · Literary

to give someone a special award or honor.

For teachers: to crown with laurel or, by extension, to bestow high honors or distinction upon someone.

- The university decided to laurel the author for his lifetime of work.
- The committee sought to laurel the diplomat for his tireless efforts in negotiating the peace treaty.

## Examples

- The winner wore a crown made of laurel leaves.
- The poet was honored with a laurel wreath during the ceremony to celebrate his lifetime of work.
- The retired general was warned not to rest on his laurels, as the political landscape required active engagement rather than reliance on past victories.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.