noun

1. 1. the seed-producing structure of an angiosperm, consisting of a shortened stem usually bearing four layers of organs, with the leaflike sepals, colorful petals, and pollen-bearing stamens unfolding around the pistils
   2. a blossom; bloom
   3. the reproductive structure of any plant
2. a plant cultivated for its blossoms; flowering plant
3. the best or finest part or example the flower of a country's youth
4. the best period of a person or thing; time of flourishing
5. something decorative; esp., a figure of speech
6. Chem. a substance in powder form, made from condensed vapors flowers of sulfur

Etymology: ME flowre, flour, OFr flor, flour (Fr fleur) < L flos (gen. floris), a flower: see bloom

intransitive verb

1. to produce blossoms; bloom
2. to reach the best or most vigorous stage his genius flowered early

transitive verb