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bloom
/bluːm/
The word 'bloom' is primarily used as a verb and a noun. As a verb, it typically refers to the process of producing flowers or being in a state of flowering. It can also be used metaphorically to describe flourishing, developing, or becoming healthy and attractive. As a noun, it can refer to a flower, the period of flowering, or a healthy, rosy color on the skin. The word is generally considered standard English and is not particularly formal or informal, though its metaphorical uses can sometimes lend a slightly poetic or descriptive tone.
💬Casual Conversation
Did you get those peonies for Karen? They need to bloom by Friday.
My bad, totally blanked. I'll swing by the shop now.
Meanings
To develop or flourish; to thrive.
"Her talent began to bloom."
Examples
Look, the jasmine will bloom any day now!
Wow, your skin has such a healthy bloom today.
I can feel my confidence finally start to bloom.
These lilies are in full bloom, just look at them!
God, your face just bloomed when he walked in!
The garden is just starting to bloom again.
I can't believe this single bloom cost twenty dollars!
Wait, does the cherry bloom usually last this long?
Stop it! You're making my cheeks bloom with embarrassment!
He really began to bloom after moving to the city.
Collocations & Compounds
cherry **bloom**
The flowers of a cherry tree.
We visited Japan during the cherry bloom.
full **bloom**
The state of having reached the most attractive or developed stage.
The roses are in full bloom.
youthful **bloom**
A healthy, fresh appearance associated with youth.
Her skin retained its youthful bloom.
economic **bloom**
A period of significant economic growth and prosperity.
The city experienced an economic bloom.
flower **bloom**
The process or state of a flower opening.
The delicate flower bloom lasted only days.
Idioms & Sayings
in full **bloom**
Having reached the most developed or attractive stage.
The garden was in full bloom.
nip in the bud
To stop something at an early stage before it develops.
We need to stop this problem before it blooms.
burst into **bloom**
To suddenly start flowering profusely.
The desert plants burst into bloom after the rain.
Etymology
The word 'bloom' originates from the Old English word 'bloma,' meaning 'mass of flowers' or 'blossom.' This, in turn, is believed to derive from a Proto-Germanic root 'blōmō-' which also relates to the concept of blooming or flowering. It shares a common ancestor with words like the Dutch 'bloem' (flower) and German 'Blume' (flower). The verb form developed from the noun, initially meaning 'to blossom' and later extending metaphorically to mean 'to flourish' or 'to thrive.' The sense of a rosy color on the skin is a later development, referring to a healthy, flower-like appearance.