any of several species of evergreen trees or shrubs that have smooth shiny leaves, small flowers, and oval-shaped berries: family Lauraceae
a tree or shrub that resembles the true laurel, such as the cherry laurel or mountain laurel
(in pl) a crown of laurel awarded as a token of victory or preeminence
distinction or honour
look to one's laurels
to take care that one's position is not lost to a rival
rest on one's laurels
to become complacent or uninspired in the wake of previous successes or achievements
[Middle English lorel via French from Latin laurus]