flourish 1 of 2

Definition of flourishnext

flourish

2 of 2

noun

Synonym Chooser

How is the word flourish distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of flourish are brandish, swing, thrash, and wave. While all these words mean "to wield or cause to move to and fro or up and down," flourish suggests vigorous, ostentatious, graceful movement.

flourished the winning lottery ticket

When is it sensible to use brandish instead of flourish?

The meanings of brandish and flourish largely overlap; however, brandish implies threatening or menacing motion.

brandishing a knife

When could swing be used to replace flourish?

While the synonyms swing and flourish are close in meaning, swing implies regular or uniform movement.

swing the rope back and forth

When might thrash be a better fit than flourish?

The synonyms thrash and flourish are sometimes interchangeable, but thrash suggests vigorous, abrupt, violent movement.

an infant thrashing his arms about

When can wave be used instead of flourish?

While in some cases nearly identical to flourish, wave usually implies smooth or continuous motion.

waving the flag

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of flourish
Verb
Innovation flourishes when people are free to think, create and challenge conventional wisdom. Ben Carson, Baltimore Sun, 26 June 2026 Silk City is by far Manchester’s biggest single residential development to be built in recent years, and will cap a 17-year campaign to redevelop a faltering retail complex that had once flourished. Don Stacom, Hartford Courant, 25 June 2026
Noun
Against that backdrop, a dotBrand is less a marketing flourish than a long-term option on trust and control. Phil Lodico, Fortune, 20 June 2026 For the final flourish and France's third, Mbappe took a pass from Olise in his stride, using the space he was afforded to score arguably the best individual goal of the tournament so far. Adam Crafton, New York Times, 16 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for flourish
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flourish
Verb
  • The 6-foot-9 Haugh stretches defenses with his shooting, attacks the rim, thrives in transition and guards multiple positions.
    Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 June 2026
  • As a result of the careful outreach, tracking and advocacy of their caring adults the majority of these students have made academic and attendance gains, been promoted and/or graduated, found work and housing and are thriving.
    Sarah Scrogin, New York Daily News, 26 June 2026
Verb
  • Should Backhus continue to succeed, the decision about who stays will be made for them.
    Charlotte Varnes, New York Times, 29 June 2026
  • This is where the sorcerer’s book of spells resurfaces; James and Henry succeed in summoning a playful demon, Goomi (Trey Parker), a kind of Funko Pop!
    Damon Wise, Deadline, 29 June 2026
Noun
  • The peak of the heat wave will be centered over Germany Saturday with many cities throughout the country expected to reach 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius).
    Taylor Ward, CNN Money, 24 June 2026
  • Early on, news of the casino’s construction caused waves of controversy across Sonoma County — some of which resulted in death threats against Sarris’ life.
    Maddie Connors, Los Angeles Times, 24 June 2026
Noun
  • There's that fish net aspect in there, the ruffles to mimic the coral, the pearls.
    Dillon Thomas, CBS News, 22 June 2026
  • The ruffle hem adds volume so that the dress moves with you.
    Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 21 June 2026
Verb
  • For four decades the appellation prospered on a reputation for concentration and the firm tannic grip of Syrah and Grenache grown in its famous schist soils.
    Paul Caputo, Forbes.com, 27 June 2026
  • Tauruses usually follow the rules and do what is suggested to thrive and prosper because appeasing others is easier than arguing.
    Lisa Stardust, PEOPLE, 26 June 2026
Noun
  • The collective shrug of Algerian shoulders would have been one of the considerations in the video review room, given that VARs the world over are lambasted for delaying the game when no one on the pitch seems interested in overturning the on-field decision.
    Graham Scott, New York Times, 19 June 2026
  • The culprit — wearing tinted hippie glasses, a white tank top and a flower-print skirt — responded with a sheepish shrug and a smile.
    Antonio Ferme, Variety, 14 June 2026
Noun
  • Brooches These beautiful pins, frequently adorned with sparkling rhinestones, intricate enameling, or delicate filigree, were a staple in our grandmothers' jewelry boxes.
    Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 27 Apr. 2026
  • Guests at the Rosewood can easily visit the local wats or shops such as Anakha Lifestyle, for local finds including sustainable buffalo-horn jewel boxes, hair clips, and chokers finished with silver filigree.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio attended the World Cup match between Colombia and Portugal at Hard Rock Stadium, with the West Miami Republican arriving with local soccer moguls Jose and Jorge Mas.
    Douglas Hanks, Miami Herald, 28 June 2026
  • He is slated to arrive in Toronto and complete his journey on July 4, just in time for the 250th anniversary of the United States.
    Jericka Duncan, CBS News, 28 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Flourish.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flourish. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.

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