leaf out
C1 neutral inseparable intransitive
In simple words
When a tree grows its leaves again in spring.
Literal meaning: To produce leaves out (outward from the branches).
Meanings
1 C1 neutral
Of a tree or plant: to produce and open its leaves, especially at the start of spring.
"The oak trees had begun to leaf out, covering the hillside in a soft green haze."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
A botanical and horticultural term used to describe the seasonal emergence of leaves on deciduous trees. Mostly found in nature writing, gardening, and environmental contexts. Not common in everyday conversation.
Commonly used with
trees spring branches deciduous forest buds
Forms
Base
leaf out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
leafs out
he/she/it
Past simple
leafed out
yesterday
Past participle
leafed out
have + pp
-ing form
leafing out
continuous
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