Bay leaf

Bay Bay, n. [F. baie a berry, the fruit of the laurel and other trees, fr. L. baca, bacca, a small round fruit, a berry, akin to Lith. bapka laurel berry.] 1. A berry, particularly of the laurel. [Obs.] [1913 Webster]

2. The laurel tree ({Laurus nobilis}). Hence, in the plural, an honorary garland or crown bestowed as a prize for victory or excellence, anciently made or consisting of branches of the laurel. [1913 Webster]

The patriot's honors and the poet's bays. --Trumbull. [1913 Webster]

3. A tract covered with bay trees. [Local, U. S.] [1913 Webster]

{Bay leaf}, the leaf of the bay tree ({Laurus nobilis}). It has a fragrant odor and an aromatic taste, and is used for flavoring in food. [1913 Webster]