Laurels
/ˈlɔːrəlz/noun
Leaves or branches of the laurel tree, especially as a symbol of victory, honor, or achievement.
Did you know?In ancient Greece and Rome, laurel was sacred to Apollo, whose prophetic priestess at Delphi was traditionally associated with its divinatory power.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European / Prehistoric Mediterranean
Uncertain
*dáphnē-related traditions
“The laurel’s deeper pre-Greek origin is uncertain; its later sacred identity was strongly associated with the Greek name daphnē.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
δάφνη (dáphnē)
“Laurel tree; the plant sacred to Apollo in Greek myth and ritual.”
Classical Latin
Latin
laurus
“Laurel tree or its leaves; a branch could serve as a sign of triumph.”
Old French
Old French
laurier
“Laurel tree, from Latin laurus with a French plant-name ending.”
Middle English
English
laurer / laurel
“Laurel; its leaves or branches, especially as a wreath of honor.”
Modern English
English
laurels
“Plural of laurel, commonly referring to honors, achievements, or the rewards symbolized by laurel crowns.”
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