bud
UK: bʌd | US: bʌd
n. 1. A small protuberance on a plant that develops into a leaf, flower, or shoot.
n. 2. (Informal) Short for "buddy," a term of address for a friend.
vi. 1. To form or produce buds.
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The word "bud" traces back to Middle English budde, meaning a small swelling or protuberance, likely of Germanic origin. It is related to Dutch bot (bud) and German Butze (lump, bud). The term has retained its core meaning of a plant's embryonic growth throughout its evolution, later extending metaphorically to informal use as "buddy" in American slang.
The rose bush is covered in tiny buds ready to bloom.
He carefully pruned the tree to encourage new buds.
"Hey, bud, can you pass me the wrench?"
In spring, the branches bud and turn green.
The gardener explained how each bud holds the potential for a new flower.