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.
Put the lentils, thyme and bay leaf in a large saucepan and cover with water by about 1 1/2 inches. Lynda Balslev, Mercury News, 7 May 2025 Add broth, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, thyme, and bay leaf. Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Apr. 2025 Lunch: lentils with potatoes, carrots, onion, garlic, bay leaf, tomato, bell pepper, and olive oil. Ana Morales, Vogue, 5 Apr. 2025 Pair with a hearty beef stew with bay leaf or with a bulgur and mushroom dish. Tom Mullen, Forbes, 23 Feb. 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 22 May. 2025.

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