subdict-logo

mushroom

Definition

  • noun: a fungus that is shaped like an umbrella
  • noun: an enlarged complex aboveground fleshy fruiting body of a fungus (as a basidiomycete) that consists typically of a stem bearing a pileus
  • verb: to increase or develop very quickly
  • verb: to well up and spread out laterally from a central source
  • often used before another noun
  • synonyms: upstart, short-lived, ephemerial

Examples

  • The population has 'mushroomed' [='shot up'] over the past 10 years. = The town has 'mushroomed' in population over the past 10 years.

  • Interest in local history is suddenly 'mushrooming'.

  • Her hobby 'mushroomed' into a thriving business.

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) I don't know why he's so upset. It's only a couple of carrots. And some cabbages. And those three bags of potatoes that we lifted last week. -And then the mushrooms the week before. -Yes,Pippin. My point is... ...he's clearly overreacting. Run! Oh,that was close. I think I've broken something. Trust a Brandybuck and a Took! What? That was just a detour. A short cut. -Short cut to what? -Mushrooms! That's mine. That's nice,Merry. Here's a nice one,Sam. I think we should get off the road. Get off the road! (..)
    2001 The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring