mushroom
UK: ˈmʌʃruːm | US: ˈmʌʃruːm
n. a fast-growing fungus with a round cap and stem, often edible
v.i. to grow or expand rapidly
The word "mushroom" originates from Middle English mussheron, borrowed from Old French mousseron, derived from mousse (moss) + the suffix -eron. The "mush" component reflects the soft, spongy texture of the fungus, while "room" metaphorically suggests its growth in open spaces (like a "room" for expansion). Over time, the spelling evolved to align with the familiar words "mush" and "room," though the connection to "moss" (Latin muscus) remains historically significant.
Wild mushrooms can be poisonous if misidentified.
The startup began to mushroom after securing venture capital.
She sautéed mushrooms with garlic for the pasta.
The city’s population mushroomed in the 20th century.
A cluster of mushrooms sprouted overnight in the damp soil.