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.
Add the bay leaf, cloves and marjoram, stir to combine and, when fragrant, about two minutes, add the stock. Claudia Alexander, The Mercury News, 7 Nov. 2024 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, 12 Oct. 2024 Pour the blend over ice in a spritz glass and garnish with the fresh bay leaf. Sharon Greenthal, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Aug. 2024 Remove the stems from the rosemary and the bay leaf. Rebekah Evans, The Week Uk, theweek, 11 Mar. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near bay leaf

Cite this Entry

“Bay leaf.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bay%20leaf. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

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