Sprout: meaning, definitions and examples

Appropriate for describing the initial stage of growth in plants when new leaves or buds start to appear. It's often used in everyday language to describe the early signs of growth.

• Look, the beans are starting to sprout!; After two weeks, tiny sprouts began to emerge from the soil

Typically describes new growth from a plant's stem or root, especially in trees and shrubs. Used in both botanical and everyday language to talk about new plant growth.

• New shoots are appearing from the base of the tree; She was excited to see the first shoots of her garden plants

Best used to describe a young plant that has developed from a seed and has its first set of true leaves. Commonly used in gardening and agricultural contexts when discussing plant cultivation.

• The gardener transplanted the seedlings into larger pots; Seedlings need adequate light and water to thrive

Can refer to the early developmental stage of a seed, but more commonly associated with microorganisms, especially in a medical or biological context. It often has a negative connotation due to its association with bacteria and disease.

• Scientists studied the germ of the seed to understand its growth; It's important to wash your hands to avoid spreading germs

Typically used for the initial stage of growth, especially when something new begins to appear or grow from a small form.

• The seeds sprouted after being planted for a few days
• New ideas sprout in his mind every day

Specifically refers to the process of a seed beginning to grow and develop. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the early stages of an idea or project.

• The seeds need wet, warm soil to germinate
• His interest in painting germinated during his teenage years

Often used to describe flowering plants or when something matures beautifully over time. It also can mean to develop in a positive and flourishing way.

• The cherry trees blossom every spring
• Over time, their friendship blossomed into love

Used in a broad range of contexts to indicate growth, elaboration, or progression from one stage to another. Suitable for both tangible and intangible subjects.

• The scientist continues to develop the new vaccine
• She developed her skills in cooking over the years