tea leaf

noun

1. the dried leaf of the tea shrub, used to make tea

2. (usually plural) shredded parts of these leaves, esp after infusion

3. slang,  a thief

Word History and Origins

Origin of tea leaf¹

sense 3 rhyming slang

Example Sentences

TJ’s Maple Flavored Espresso Black Tea Blend is made with “a blend of select black & herbal tea leaves, natural maple flavor, and ground espresso beans,” according to TJ’s.

From Salon

When it gets to this stage of the tour, with one win required to take the series, you start reading the tea leaves on everything Farrell says.

From BBC

Inside, there’s a beautiful marble bar, wood tables, a cozy couch and long tables with tea leaves in jars to smell and discover.

From Los Angeles Times

I got some good crackers, some goat cheese wrapped in tea leaves.

From Los Angeles Times

This specific variety is “made of smooth Chinese loose leaf green tea leaves naturally scented by layers of jasmine buds,” according to the tea’s description.

From Salon