bay leaf

[ bey leef ]

noun

1. the dried leaf of the bay laurel, Laurus nobilis, used in cooking.
2. the leaf of the bayberry, Pimenta racemosa, used in making bay oil and bay rum.

bay leaf

noun

1. a leaf, usually dried, of the Mediterranean laurel, Laurus nobilis , used in cooking to flavour soups and stews

Word History and Origins

Origin of bay leaf¹

First recorded in 1630–40

Example Sentences

Add combined oyster liquor and chicken broth, bay leaf, and a handful of chopped green parts of green onions, and bring to a low boil.

From Salon

It includes recipes for meyer lemon and bay leaf gelato, jasmine-scented almond milk mousse and fruit pudding made from white melon and orange blossom.

From Salon

Toss in the bay leaves and the bundle of thyme and stir to combine everything.

From Salon

Combine chopped chunks of some celery, carrots, a small onion, a bay leaf, some lemon juice, and a pinch of kosher salt and drop it into the water.

From Salon

Some confectioners infuse their candying syrup with botanicals, like bay leaves, rosemary or peppercorns, for added intrigue.

From Salon