Basic Details
Word: Laurels
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A type of tree with shiny green leaves; often used as a symbol of victory or honour.
Synonyms: Accomplishments, Achievements, Glory
Antonyms: Defeat, Failure, Loss
Idioms and Phrases
- Rest on one's laurels: To become complacent or stop striving after achieving success. Example: "After winning the championship, he didn't rest on his laurels and continued to train hard for the next season."
- To earn one's laurels: To achieve recognition or success through hard work. Example: "She earned her laurels by consistently working late to complete the project ahead of schedule."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The athlete was awarded a gold medal, a symbol of the laurels he had earned after years of hard work and dedication.
Example 2: The poet was celebrated for her beautiful verses, and many in the audience believed she would soon find her place among literary laurels.
Example 3: He knew not to rest on his laurels after passing the exam — there were more challenges ahead in his studies.
Fun Fact
Did you know that in ancient Greece and Rome, a laurel wreath was given to victors in athletic competitions and was considered a symbol of status and success?
Famous Quote
"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful." Albert Schweitzer
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "laurels" refer to?
a) A type of flower
b) A type of tree and symbol of honour
c) A kind of fruit
d) A musical instrument
Answer: b) A type of tree and symbol of honour
2. Which of these is a synonym of "laurels"?
a) Defeat
b) Failure
c) Achievements
d) Lesson
Answer: c) Achievements
3. Which sentence uses "laurels" correctly?
a) The laurels were falling from the trees.
b) She admired the laurels she earned through her hard work.
c) He bought laurels for lunch.
d) They rode laurels into the sunset.
Answer: b) She admired the laurels she earned through her hard work.
4. Which idiom means not to become complacent after success?
a) To earn one's laurels
b) Rest on one's laurels
c) To take the bull by the horns
d) To call it a day
Answer: b) Rest on one's laurels
5. What is the opposite of "laurels"?
a) Glory
b) Achievement
c) Defeat
d) Victory
Answer: c) Defeat
