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.
What does bay leaf do to your body? — Hannah Yasharoff, USA Today, 21 Feb. 2026 Remove the bay leaf and transfer to a blender. — Anna Grace Lee, Vogue, 14 Feb. 2026 Plus, lots of salt, peppercorns, a bay leaf or two. — Stacey Lastoe, Southern Living, 22 May 2026 Cumin, thyme, sage, and bay leaf are sometimes included as well. — Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Apr. 2026 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

Rhymes for bay leaf

See All Rhymes for bay leaf

Browse Nearby Words

Bayle
bay leaf
bay-leaf willow
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bay leaf.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bay%20leaf. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on bay leaf

Nglish: Translation of bay leaf for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about bay leaf

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