I. ˈlȯr-ē-ət, ˈlär- noun
Etymology: Middle English, crowned with laurel as a distinction, from Latin laureatus, from laurea laurel wreath, from feminine of laureus of laurel, from laurus
Date: circa 1529
: the recipient of honor or recognition for achievement in an art or science ; specifically : poet laureate
• laureate adjective
• lau·re·ate·ship -ˌship noun
II. ˈlȯr-ē-ˌāt, ˈlär- transitive verb
( -at·ed ; -at·ing )
Date: circa 1610
1. : to crown with or as if with a laurel wreath for excellence or achievement
2. : to appoint to the office of poet laureate
• lau·re·ation ˌlȯr-ē-ˈā-shən, ˌlär- noun