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Meaning of poet laureate

Source language: EnglishDictionary language: English

poet laureate

noun

Definitions

  1. A poet officially appointed by a government, often expected to compose poems for state occasions and other government events.

  2. One who received an honorable degree in grammar, including poetry and rhetoric, at the English universities; so called as being presented with a wreath of laurel.

  3. Formerly, an officer of the king's household, whose business was to compose an ode annually for the king's birthday, and other suitable occasions; now, a poet officially distinguished by such honorary title, the office being a sinecure.