bonanza

UK: bəˈnæn.zə | US: bəˈnæn.zə

Definition
  1. n. a situation or event that creates a sudden increase in wealth, success, or good fortune

  2. n. (historical) a rich vein of ore in mining

  3. n. (figurative) an abundant source of something desirable

Structure
bon <good>anza <abundance>
Etymology

bonanza = bon<good> + anza<abundance>

  • bon (from Spanish "bueno," meaning "good")
  • anza (from Spanish "-anza," a suffix denoting abundance or a large quantity, derived from Latin "-antia")

Etymology Origin:
The word "bonanza" entered English in the mid-19th century during the California Gold Rush, borrowed from Spanish miners who used it to describe a rich vein of ore. The Spanish term itself traces back to Latin "bonus" (good) combined with the suffix "-antia," implying a state of abundance. Over time, its meaning expanded metaphorically to signify any windfall or stroke of luck.

Examples
  1. The discovery of oil was a bonanza for the small town.

  2. The tech startup struck bonanza with its innovative app.

  3. Farmers celebrated the bonanza harvest after years of drought.

  4. The lottery winner described the prize as a financial bonanza.

  5. Historians note the silver bonanza that fueled Spain’s economy in the 16th century.