poet laureate

noun3

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

   • "Can you imagine, Louis, an Archbishop of Canterbury, or a Poet Laureate, or a Chancellor of the Exchequer being friendly—perhaps even dining—with the editor of The Times?" "Certainly; why not?" — 1923
2. •
   (UK) 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.
3. •
   (no longer used) 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.