noun
bay laurel; sweet bay
Abbreviation of 月桂樹 (げっけいじゅ). Used for the plant Laurus nobilis, often in contexts like cooking or wreaths.
See also: 月桂樹
月桂の葉を煮込みに加えると風味が増す。
Adding bay laurel leaves to a stew enhances the flavor.
noun
Literary or poetic term for the moon or moonlight. Not used in everyday conversation.
月桂が庭を青白く照らしていた。
The moonlight was shining palely on the garden.
noun
katsura tree on the moon
Original meaning, referring to the legendary katsura tree said to grow on the moon in Chinese folklore. Rare and archaic.
中国の伝説では、月には月桂と呼ばれる桂の木が生えているとされる。
In Chinese legend, a katsura tree called 月桂 is said to grow on the moon.
Compound of 月 (moon) and 桂 (katsura tree). Originally referred to the mythical katsura tree on the moon, later extended poetically to the moon itself, and also used as an abbreviation for 月桂樹 (bay laurel).