Etymology Map
Back to all words

Exuberant

2 stages from Latin to English.

Today it means full of energy and excitement

Where does the word "exuberant" come from? It comes from Latin exuberans, adopted directly into English (1500s).

1
Stage 1 of 2
exuberans
Latin · ancient
"overflowing"
present participle of 'exuberare', to be fruitful: 'ex-' plus 'uber', udder
2
Stage 2 of 2
exuberant
English · 1500s
"abundant"
first used of lush plant growth
Drag to pan · scroll to zoom
Read the full story

Exuberant’s story begins in Latin: exuberans meant “overflowing.” Present participle of 'exuberare', to be fruitful: 'ex-' plus 'uber', udder. It reached English by 1500s as exuberant. First used of lush plant growth. Today, exuberant means full of energy and excitement.