flourishes; flourished; flourishing
1
: to grow well : to be healthy
plants and animals that flourished here thousands of years ago
2
: to be very successful : to do very well
Regional markets have flourished in recent years.
a decorative style that flourished in the 1920s
a flourishing business
3
: to hold up and show (something) in an excited or proud way
Dressed as a pirate, he entered the stage flourishing his sword.
plural flourishes
1
: something that is added as a detail or decoration
the floral flourishes in the living room
a house with many clever little flourishes
Her writing style is simple and clear, without unnecessary flourishes.
2
a
: a dramatic or fancy way of doing something
Dinner was served with a flourish.
b
: a sudden smooth movement that is likely to be noticed
He waved his sword with a flourish.
She opened the door with a flourish.
With a flourish of her pen, she signed the bill into law.
3
: a short and exciting piece of music played by trumpets : fanfare
a flourish of trumpets
Cite this Entry
“Flourish.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/flourish. Accessed 15 Jun. 2026.
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