- a small European evergreen tree, Laurus nobilis, of the laurel family, having dark, glossy green leaves.
- any tree of the genus Laurus.
- any of various similar trees or shrubs, as the mountain laurel or the great rhododendron.
- the foliage of the laurel as an emblem of victory or distinction.
- a branch or wreath of laurel foliage.
- honor won, as for achievement in a field or activity.
- to adorn or wreathe with laurel.
- to honor with marks of distinction.
- 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.
- 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.
- U.S. motion-picture actor and comedian, born in England.
- a city in SE Mississippi.
- a town in central Maryland.
- a female given name.
- any lauraceous tree of the genus Laurus, such as the bay tree (see bay 4) and L. canariensis, of the Canary Islands and Azores
- any lauraceous plant
- short for cherry laurel, mountain laurel
- a European thymelaeaceous evergreen shrub, Daphne laureola, with glossy leaves and small green flowers
- an evergreen cornaceous shrub, Aucuba japonica, of S and SE Asia, the female of which has yellow-spotted leaves
- a wreath of true laurel, worn on the head as an emblem of victory or honour in classical times
- honour, distinction, or fame
- to be on guard against one's rivals
- to be satisfied with distinction won by past achievements and cease to strive for further achievements
- to crown with laurels
