/lawr"euhl, lor"-/ , n. , v. , laureled, laureling or ( esp. Brit. ) laurelled, laurelling .
n.
1. Also called bay, sweet bay . a small European evergreen tree, Laurus nobilis, of the laurel family, having dark, glossy green leaves. Cf. laurel family .
2. any tree of the genus Laurus.
3. any of various similar trees or shrubs, as the mountain laurel or the great rhododendron.
4. the foliage of the laurel as an emblem of victory or distinction.
5. a branch or wreath of laurel foliage.
6. Usually, laurels . honor won, as for achievement in a field or activity.
7. look to one's laurels , to be alert to the possibility of being excelled or surpassed: New developments in the industry are forcing long-established firms to look to their laurels.
8. rest on one's laurels , to be content with one's past or present honors, achievements, etc.: He retired at the peak of his career and is resting on his laurels.
v.t.
9. to adorn or wreathe with laurel.
10. to honor with marks of distinction.
[ 1250-1300; dissimilated var. of ME laurer, earlier lorer lorier bay tree, equiv. to lor bay, laurel ( laurus ) + -ier -IER 2 ; see -ER 2 ]
Syn. 6. glory, fame, renown, praise.