abound

verb

ə-ˈbau̇nd How to pronounce abound (audio)
abounded; abounding; abounds
Synonyms of abound

intransitive verb

1
: to be present in large numbers or in great quantity : to be prevalent
a business in which opportunities abound
errors and inconsistencies abound
2
: to be copiously supplied
—used with in or with
… life abounded in mysteries …—Norman Mailer
institutions abound with evidence of his success—Johns Hopkins Magazine

Synonyms of abound

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Examples of abound in a Sentence

They live in a region where oil abounds. a city that abounds with art museums and private galleries
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Rumors abounded that Portman, who has met Cusk and recommended one of her books for her book club, felt betrayed. — René Ostberg, Encyclopedia Britannica, 2 Sep. 2026 Still, opportunity abounds, and Broadcom (AVGO) is scheduled to report Q3 earnings after the market close on Wednesday. — Michael Khouw, CNBC, 31 Aug. 2026 Little touches abound, including a turn-down service that comes with a new treat each night; spa treatments are plentiful and expert. — Mattie Kahn, Vogue, 31 Aug. 2026 Connecticut’s cultural capital, New Haven is an urban walker’s paradise, abounding in good eats and history. — Jeanne Bonner, CNN Money, 29 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for abound

Word History

Etymology

Middle English abounden, borrowed from Anglo-French abunder, borrowed from Latin abundāre "to overflow, be full, be plentifully supplied (with)," from ab- ab- + undāre "to rise in waves, surge, flood," verbal derivative of unda "wave" — more at water entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of abound was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing abound

Rhymes for abound

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Cite this Entry

“Abound.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/abound. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

abound

verb
ə-ˈbau̇nd How to pronounce abound (audio)
1
: to be present in large numbers or in great quantity
wildlife abounds
2
: to be filled or abundantly supplied
a stream abounding in fish
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