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.
After those alliums are aromatic and golden brown, deglaze the pot with dry sherry, then add the aforementioned broth and a bay leaf. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Jan. 2025 Many Mediterranean herbs appreciate staying relatively cool during winter, such as rosemary, lavender, sage, thyme, savory, oregano, bay leaf, and parsley. Miri Talabac, Baltimore Sun, 2 Jan. 2025 Remove the bay leaf and thyme springs from the sautéed mushrooms and discard. Brianna Crane, Axios, 23 Nov. 2024 Place the vegetables, plums, wine, stock and bay leaf in a large roasting pan and top with the seasoned brisket. Kathryn Gregory, The Courier-Journal, 9 Dec. 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 22 Jan. 2025.

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