The word laureate is often misspelled as l-a-u-r-e-t-t-e. However, the correct spelling includes an additional letter, making it l-a-u-r-e-a-t-e. The IPA phonetic transcription helps to explain this spelling. The first syllable is pronounced /lɔːr/, the second syllable is pronounced /iː/, and the final syllable is pronounced /eɪt/. The "a" in the final syllable represents the sound made by the diphthong "ae", as in "aether". So remember, laureate is spelled with an "a" instead of an "e" in the final syllable.
Laureate is a noun that refers to a person who has been awarded a laurel wreath or some other form of recognition for outstanding achievements or skills, typically in the fields of literature, poetry, art, music, science, or academia. It can also be used as an adjective to describe someone who has been honored with such a distinction.
The term originates from the ancient practice of honoring individuals with a wreath made from the leaves of the laurel tree, which was believed to be a symbol of victory and excellence. In ancient Greece and Rome, laurel wreaths were often bestowed upon poets, scholars, and athletes who had achieved great success in their respective disciplines.
In modern usage, being a laureate signifies a high level of expertise and accomplishment in a particular field. It carries an air of prestige and recognition for the individual's outstanding contributions, often resulting in widespread admiration and respect. Laureates are often seen as exemplary figures within their domains, serving as role models and sources of inspiration for aspiring individuals. They may also receive various privileges or benefits associated with their title, such as financial awards, grants, or positions of influence.
Overall, a laureate is an individual who has been honored and celebrated for their exceptional achievements in a particular field, and is recognized as a revered figure within their sphere of expertise.
• Crowned with laurel.
• Decked or invested with laurel; Poet-Laureate, a poet with an annual salary from the Crown, formerly required to compose an ode on the birthday of the sovereign, now only an honorary office or sinecure.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "laureate" has its origins in the Latin word "laureatus", which means "crowned with laurel". The Latin term derived from "laurus", which refers to the laurel tree or shrub. In ancient Rome, the laurel wreath was used to crown victorious leaders, poets, and scholars. Over time, the term "laureate" came to be associated with individuals who are honored or awarded for their achievements in various fields such as literature, academic studies, or art.