bay leaf

noun

: the dried leaf of the European laurel (Laurus nobilis) used in cooking

Examples of bay leaf in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The wine offers aromas of blueberry, bay leaf, dark chocolate, and cigar box. Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 19 July 2025 Gorgeous plush tannins and an inspiring vein of acidity support raspberry, black cherry, vanilla, bay leaf, and lavender flavors that tease the side palate and linger into a satisfying finish. Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 6 July 2025 Strain the marinade into a bowl reserving the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Georgeanne Brennan, Mercury News, 5 June 2025 The cookies won’t taste like a latte, but sort of like a bay leaf in a stew, the instant espresso powder rounds out the cookie with a subtle bitter background flavor that balances the sweetness of the dough. Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 3 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for bay leaf

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bay leaf was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Bay leaf.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bay%20leaf. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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