WordGarden.ioburgeon
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /bˈɜːdʒən/
US
- /ˈbɜrdʒən/
Meanings
Verb
to grow, increase, or develop rapidly
to put out buds or begin growing as a plant
Beyond the definition
Imagine a tiny seed pushing through the soil, reaching for the sun—that's burgeoning. It describes something starting to grow or increase quickly, often in a noticeable and positive way. A city's economy might burgeon with new businesses, or a young artist's talent could burgeon after years of practice.
The word evokes a sense of vibrant growth, like springtime blossoms bursting forth. You can see something burgeoning—a field of wildflowers, a bustling neighborhood, or even an idea taking shape in someone's mind. It's more than just growing; it's growing with energy and promise. Think of the phrase "burgeoning creativity"—it suggests a powerful, expanding force.
To burgeon means to begin to grow or increase rapidly and profusely. It implies a sudden flourishing, often from a relatively small beginning. While "grow" is a general term, burgeon suggests an energetic, almost explosive expansion. Think of a bud swelling on a branch before it bursts into bloom—that's a perfect example of something burgeoning.
Historically, the word comes from the Old French bourgeon, meaning "bud." This origin helps explain why it's often used to describe things coming into being or reaching their full potential.
You might read about a burgeoning field of research, indicating rapid development and increasing interest. Or perhaps a small town is experiencing a burgeoning tourism industry as more people discover its charms. It's also frequently used figuratively: "His confidence began to burgeon after receiving the award."
However, it's not always positive. While often associated with growth and prosperity, something can "burgeon out of control," suggesting rapid expansion that is becoming problematic or unsustainable. For example: "A sense of panic began to burgeon among the crowd."
So, whether describing a blossoming flower, a thriving industry, or a developing emotion, burgeon captures the essence of vigorous and noticeable growth—a powerful unfolding from something small into something substantial.
Examples
- 1
Town growth
The town has burgeoned since the new highway was built.
- 2
Sales growth
The company's sales began to burgeon once it started selling online.
- 3
Website growth
What started as a small blog quickly burgeoned into a full news site.
- Patternburgeon into + larger thing
grow and develop into it
- 4
Public interest
Interest in local history burgeoned after the museum reopened.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Legal escalation
A minor dispute at work eventually burgeoned into a lawsuit.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- burgeoning industry
- burgeoning population
- burgeon into
- burgeon with
Word family
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Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- burgeonverb
Forms
- burgeoning-ing formverb
- burgeonedpast tenseverb
- burgeonsverb