laurels Definition

an evergreen shrub or tree (Laurus nobilis of the family Lauraceae, the laurel family) of southern Europe with small yellow flowers, fruits that are ovoid blackish berries, and evergreen foliage once used by the ancient Greeks to crown victors in the Pythian games —called also bay, sweet bay

a tree or shrub that resembles the true laurel; especially : mountain laurel

a crown of laurel awarded as an honor

to deck or crown with laurel

to work in order to keep one's success or position

to be satisfied with past success and do nothing to achieve further success

an evergreen Pacific coast tree (Umbellularia californica) of the laurel family with small umbellate flowers

a large-leaved evergreen rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum) of eastern North America with rosy bell-shaped flowers more or less speckled with green —called also rosebay rhododendron

a North American evergreen shrub or small tree (Kalmia latifolia) of the heath family with glossy leaves and umbels of rose-colored or white flowers

a dwarf shrub (Kalmia angustifolia) of the heath family that is native to northeastern North America and is poisonous to livestock and that resembles mountain laurel but has narrower leaves and smaller bright red flowers —called also lambkill

a low-growing Eurasian shrub (Daphne laureola) with oblong evergreen leaves and axillary racemes of yellowish flowers