(verb)
to be in an active, productive, or developing state, to prosper and be successful;
e.g. The industry began to flourish due to the development of new technology.
(verb)
to be at the height of success or influence during a particular period, or to be in the highest stage of development, especially with regards to one's career;
e.g. Many of these businesses flourish in the week just before Christmas.
(verb)
to wave or brandish something, to wield it in bold, dramatic, or sweeping gestures, to or as if to attract attention;
e.g. I saw her flourish the letter over her head and knew that she had been accepted for the position.
(noun)
an instance of extravagantly waving or brandishing something, or some other bold gesture intended to attract attention;
e.g. The painter added the finishing touches with a flourish of his brush.
(noun)
an elaborate literary or rhetorical expression, often one that is excessively so;
e.g. Each flourish in his speech made it seem more pretentious.
(noun)
an ornamental or decorative stroke, detail, or design in something, especially handwriting or printing, often involving flowing curves;
e.g. She drew a flourish beneath her signature.
(noun)
an instance of doing something in a showy or impressive way, especially a period of thriving or being particularly successful;
e.g. The industry saw a flourish during the coming weeks due to an increase in the demand for its products.
(noun)
a sudden burst of some activity, especially of growth or development;
e.g. The garden was filled with a flourish of vegetation due to the rains.
(noun)
an elaborate section of music, especially a fanfare of brass instruments;
e.g. The musical composition opened with a flourish of horns.
