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: げっけいじゅ
Literary or poetic term for the moon or moonlight. Not used in everyday conversation.
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.
Adding bay laurel leaves to a stew enhances the flavor.
The moonlight was shining palely on the garden.
In Chinese legend, a katsura tree called 月桂 is said to grow on the moon.
bay laurel; bay tree; sweet bay; laurel tree
Standard kanji spelling for all senses.
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).