1 B2 neutral
For a plant to produce buds, especially in spring, as new growth begins.
"The cherry trees are starting to bud out — spring must finally be here."
bud out
B2 neutral intransitive
For a plant to begin producing buds in spring, signaling the start of new growth.
In plain English
When a tree or bush starts growing little buds — the first sign that spring is coming.
What does "bud out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 idiomatic neutral
Figuratively, for a person or idea to begin showing signs of development or potential.
"Her talent for design really started budding out in her second year at art school."
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
For buds to emerge outward from a plant's stem or branches.
Actually means
When a tree or bush starts growing little buds — the first sign that spring is coming.
Usage tip
Primarily used in horticulture and gardening. Describes the early spring growth phase. Also used metaphorically to describe a person or idea beginning to develop.
Words that pair with "bud out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
tree plant shrub spring growth branches
How to conjugate "bud out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
bud out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
buds out
he/she/it
Past simple
buded out
yesterday
Past participle
buded out
have + pp
-ing form
buding out
continuous
Hear "bud out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "bud out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "bud out"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
bud burgeon come into bud put out buds sprout
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.