buds

buds · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    Compact growths on plants that develop into leaves, flowers, or shoots.

  2. 2.

    Forms buds.

  3. 3.

    Taste receptors on the tongue.

  4. 4.

    Friends (informal).

  5. 5.

    Partially opened flowers.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    taste buds — sensory receptors for taste
  • •
    cotton buds — small swabs for cleaning (British)

Related words

See also: bloom, bud, flower, sprout
Synonyms: shoots, sprouts

Etymology

From Middle English "budde," with the regular plural "-s" ending.