Bud

Definition

The word "bud" denotes (1) an undeveloped shoot or protuberance on a plant or organism that develops into a leaf, flower, or branch; (2) a small swelling or growth; (3) (slang) a close friend or pal; and as a verb, (4) to produce buds or begin to develop.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /bʌd/
• Respelling: BUD

British English

• IPA: /bʌd/
• Respelling: BUD

Etymology

From Old English budda “bud, shoot,” of Germanic origin; cognate with Dutch bot and German Bütte “shoot.” Entered English before the 12th century.

Derivatives

• Budding (adj. / present participle)
• Budded (past participle)
• Budless (adj.)
• Budlike (adj.)

Synonyms

• Sprout
• Shoot
• Pal (slang)
• Friend (slang)

Antonyms

• Blossom (for botanical sense)
• Enemy (for slang sense)

Usage

"Bud" appears in botanical contexts and informal speech. Examples: "The rose buds are swelling," "He’s my old bud from college," and "In spring, trees begin to bud early."

Related Terms

• Blossom: The flower of a plant.
• Shoot: A young stem or branch.
• Sprout: A new growth from a seed or plant.
• Bloom: The state of flowering.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An undeveloped shoot on a plant that develops into a leaf, flower, or branch: The early stage of growth.
  • Example: "The rose buds are just beginning to open."
• A small swelling or protuberance on an organism or structure: A general term for bud-like growths.
  • Example: "Tiny coral buds lined the reef."
• (Slang) A close friend or pal: Informal and friendly address.
  • Example: "How’s it going, bud?"

Verb

• To produce or develop buds: To begin the growth of shoots.
  • Example: "The apple tree budded earlier this year."
• To begin to develop or emerge: To start to show potential or form.
  • Example: "New ideas are budding among the team."