Langimage
English

blossoms

|blos-soms|

B1

🇺🇸

/ˈblɑsəmz/

🇬🇧

/ˈblɒsəmz/

(blossom)

flowering

Base FormPlural3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleAdjective
blossomblossomsblossomsblossomedblossomedblossomingblossoming
Etymology
Etymology Information

'blossom' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'blostma' or 'blōstm', where the root meant 'flower' or 'bloom'.

Historical Evolution

'blossom' changed from Old English 'blostma' (also seen as Middle English 'blosme'/'blosom') and eventually became the modern English word 'blossom'.

Meaning Changes

Initially it meant 'a flower or mass of flowers', and over time it also came to be used as a verb meaning 'to flower' or metaphorically 'to flourish', which remains in current usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the flowers of a plant or tree, or a mass of such flowers; the state when these flowers are open.

The apple tree's blossoms covered the branches.

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Noun 2

a period or condition of flourishing or peak beauty.

The city's cultural blossoms were admired by visitors.

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Verb 1

produces flowers; comes into flower (used of plants).

In spring the garden blossoms earlier each year.

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Verb 2

develops or grows in a promising or healthy way; begins to flourish (often used figuratively, e.g., 'blossoms into').

Her interest in painting blossoms into a successful career.

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Last updated: 2025/11/30 17:19