blossom

UK: ˈblɒsəm | US: ˈblɑːsəm

Definition
  1. n. 1. The flower or flowers of a plant, especially one producing edible fruit.

  2. n. 2. A period or state of flourishing or peak development.

  3. vi. 1. To produce flowers; to bloom.

  4. vi. 2. To develop or flourish in a promising way.

Structure
bloss <flower>om <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "blossom" traces back to Old English blōstm(a) or blōsma, derived from Proto-Germanic blōstmô, meaning "flower" or "bloom." The root blōs- is linked to the verb blōwan ("to bloom"), which shares ancestry with Old Norse blóm and Dutch bloesem. The suffix -om is a nominal ending that solidified the word's meaning as a noun. Over time, "blossom" evolved to signify both the physical flower and metaphorical flourishing, reflecting growth and vitality.

Examples
  1. The cherry trees blossom in early spring, covering the streets in pink.

  2. Her talent began to blossom after years of dedicated practice.

  3. The apple blossoms attract bees for pollination.

  4. Their friendship blossomed into a lifelong bond.

  5. The garden is full of blossoms after the rainy season.