abundant
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /əbˈʌndənt/
US
- /əˈbəndənt/
Description
- plentiful
- in great supply
- more than enough
Imagine walking into an orchard absolutely bursting with ripe apples—that's abundant! It means there's more than enough of something; a generous supply. Think of a field of wildflowers, a starry night sky, or a parent's love for their child—all examples of things that can be truly abundant. You might describe a successful harvest as abundant, or a writer with an abundant imagination.
The word suggests not just having enough, but having so much it feels almost overwhelming in its generosity. It's more than sufficient; it's overflowing! Sometimes, abundance isn't about material things—it can also refer to qualities like joy, kindness, or opportunities. "She had an abundant supply of energy" means she was full of life and vitality.
The word "abundant" describes something existing in great quantities; plentiful, overflowing, or rich. It evokes a sense of generosity and fullness—not just having enough, but having more than is needed or expected. Think of the Amazon rainforest teeming with life, an abundant harvest after a good growing season, or a river flowing with abundant water.
Historically, "abundant" comes from the Latin word "abundare," meaning to overflow or surge forth. This origin helps explain why it carries such a strong sense of excess and richness. It's often used to describe natural resources: "The region is abundant in oil." But it's not limited to physical things.
You can also speak of an "abundant mindset," which means focusing on what you have rather than what you lack, or an "abundant life" filled with joy, purpose, and meaningful connections. A writer might have an "abundant vocabulary," meaning they have a wide range of words at their disposal.
Sometimes, the word is used to emphasize a positive quality: "There was abundant energy and enthusiasm at the concert." Or it can highlight a negative excess: "Sugar was abundant in his diet, which led to health problems."
So whether describing nature's bounty, personal qualities, or simply a large quantity of something, "abundant" paints a picture of fullness, richness, and more than enough. It's a word that speaks to the power of plenty.
Examples
- 1
Seasonal food
In late summer, fresh peaches are abundant at roadside stalls.
- 2
Natural resources
This part of the coast is abundant in fish.
Pattern
abundant in + thing
having a lot of it
- 3
Water supply
The village has an abundant supply of clean water.
- 4
Evidence
The report offers abundant evidence to support the new policy.
- 5
Safety decision
Out of an abundance of caution, the airport delayed all departing flights.
Phrase
out of an abundance of caution
to be extra careful
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- abundantadjective