Flower Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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flower
[ˈflaʊər ]
Definitions
nature
The seed-bearing part of a plant, consisting of reproductive organs (stamens and carpels) that are typically surrounded by a brightly colored corolla (petals) and a green calyx (sepals).
Synonyms
bloom, blossom, floral arrangement.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| flower |
Commonly used interchangeably with 'flower', referring to the same concept.
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| blossom |
Used to describe a flower, especially when it is fully open. It can also metaphorically mean to develop or flourish. Often used in literary or romantic contexts.
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| bloom |
Refers to the process of a flower opening or the period when a flower or plant is producing flowers. Often used in a poetic or descriptive sense.
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| floral arrangement |
Refers to the art of creating attractive ordeals of flowers. Commonly used in contexts related to events, interior decoration, and floristry.
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Examples of usage
- She picked a beautiful flower from the garden.
- The field was covered with wild flowers.
- The florist arranged a bouquet of colorful flowers for the wedding.
symbolism
A symbol of beauty, love, and purity, often used in various rituals and celebrations.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| flower |
This is a general term used for any flowering plant or the bloom of such a plant. It can be used in a variety of contexts, including botany, gardening, or when giving someone a bouquet.
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| blossom |
This word is commonly used to describe the flowers of fruit-bearing plants or trees, like apple or cherry blossoms. It can also mean the process of flowering, or metaphorically refer to someone or something developing and thriving.
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| rose |
This is a specific type of flower known for its beauty and fragrance, often associated with romance and love. It’s used when referring to this particular kind of flower.
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| bloom |
This term is often used to refer specifically to the period when a flower is open and at its most beautiful. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone or something reaching a peak phase.
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Examples of usage
- He gave her a bouquet of roses as a symbol of his love.
- The lotus flower is a symbol of purity and enlightenment in many cultures.
literature
To produce flowers; bloom.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| flower |
Commonly used to refer to the colorful part of a plant that is often fragrant. Suitable in everyday conversation and writing.
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| blossom |
Similar to bloom, but often used for trees and shrubs. Can also imply growth and development, particularly in personal contexts.
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| bloom |
Generally refers to the state of a flower when it is fully open and displaying its beauty. Can also metaphorically mean to flourish or thrive.
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| flourish |
Less about flowers specifically and more about thriving or growing in a healthy way. Often used in broader contexts like business or personal development.
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Examples of usage
- The cherry trees flowered in the spring.
- The garden flowers with different colors in summer.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In various cultures, flowers symbolize love, friendship, and even mourning, as seen in funeral arrangements.
- Different flowers carry specific meanings; for instance, red roses represent love, while lilies often symbolize purity.
Biology
- Flowers are essential for reproduction in flowering plants, helping to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- The colorful parts of flowers are petals, which serve to attract animals that help in the pollination process.
Art and Literature
- Flowers often appear in art and poetry as symbols of beauty and transience, inspiring famous works by artists and poets alike.
- In the novel 'The Language of Flowers,' flowers are used to communicate emotions and messages between characters.
Environmental Impact
- Many flowers play a crucial role in their ecosystems, providing food and habitats for numerous species.
- Some flowers have evolved special traits to adapt and thrive in different climates, showcasing nature's diversity.
Origin of 'flower'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old French 'flor' and Latin 'flos,' both meaning 'blossom' or 'flower.'
- In many languages, the root meaning relates to blooming, such as 'blume' in German, which also means flower.
The word 'flower' originated from the Middle English 'flour', which came from the Old French 'flur', meaning 'blossom' or 'flower'. The use of flowers for decorative, symbolic, and ritual purposes dates back to ancient civilizations, with flowers often being associated with beauty, love, and nature.
See also: flow, flowing, flowingly, inflow, outflow, overflow.