Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/əˈbʌndənt/

Definitions

1. (Adjective) Existing or available in large quantities; plentiful.

2. (Adjective) More than enough; overflowing.

Usage Examples

• The farm had an abundant harvest of wheat this season.
• We are blessed with abundant natural resources.
• The region's abundant wildlife attracts many tourists.

Etymology

From the Latin word "abundare," meaning "to overflow," derived from "ab-" (meaning "away from") and "unda" (meaning "wave" or "water").

Synonyms

• Plentiful
• Abounding
• Copious
• Overflowing
• Ample

Antonyms

• Scarce
• Limited
• Insufficient
• Deficient
• Rare

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• American English: /əˈbʌndənt/
• British English: /əˈbʌndənt/
• Australian English: /əˈbʌndənt/

Historical Usage

The word "abundant" has been used since the late 14th century, primarily to describe things that are in great quantity or plentiful. It comes from the Latin "abundare," meaning "to overflow," reflecting its connection to excess or abundance.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, abundance is linked with prosperity and wealth. For example, in Chinese culture, the idea of abundance is closely associated with the concept of good fortune and luck, especially during New Year celebrations. Similarly, abundance in Western culture is often viewed as a symbol of success and achievement, particularly in terms of material wealth.

More Information

The term "abundant" is frequently used in both literal and metaphorical contexts. In ecology, for instance, an "abundant species" refers to one that is present in large numbers in a particular environment. In everyday language, it can describe anything that is plentiful, whether it's food, resources, or even emotions like love and happiness. The concept of abundance often ties into ideas of sustainability and environmentalism, particularly in discussions about resource management and conservation.