Keep Danger at Bay
Meaning
Having protective powers.
Origin
In ancient times the bay tree was regarded as having great protective powers. This was due to the fact that it never seemed to be struck by lightning. Both Greeks and Romans wore its leaves as protection during thunderstorms in an effort to keep the lightning at bay. During the great plague of London, many citizens did the same, in the hope that they would be spared the disease, but it didn’t help.
