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Design Guide 3 min read
Laurel Wreath on a Headstone: Meaning of Victory and Honour
What a laurel wreath on a headstone means — victory, honour and achievement — its classical and military roots, and how to use it on a memorial.
A laurel wreath honours a life of achievement or service.
What it means
| Variation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Laurel wreath | Victory, honour and achievement |
| Laurel around a name | A distinguished life |
| Laurel with military emblem | Honourable service — see military inscriptions |
| Laurel and cross | Victory over death |
History
In ancient Greece and Rome, laurel crowned victors and poets. Today it appears in many military and academic emblems and on memorials for people who served or achieved much.
Using it on a new headstone
- A wreath encircling the name or a portrait.
- Half-wreaths on either side of a service emblem.
Key Takeaways
- Laurel means victory and honour.
- It suits veterans, teachers and achievers.
- It frames names and portraits well.
Next Step
Explore more in our headstone symbols guide, or add a symbol in the Design Studio.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a laurel wreath mean on a gravestone?
Victory, honour and a life of achievement.
Is the laurel wreath a military symbol?
It appears in many military emblems, but it is used for any distinguished life.
What's the difference between laurel and an evergreen wreath?
Laurel signals honour and victory; evergreen wreaths usually signify eternal life.
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