Profusions

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. An abundance or large quantity of something that is often lavishly or extravagantly provided
2. A state of being plentiful or excessively overflowing in various contexts or situations
3. A copious amount or great multitude of elements that creates a striking or impressive display

Etymology: "Profusions" is simply the plural of "profusion," so it inherits the history of the singular form. "Profusion" entered English from Middle French "profusion," which in turn came from the Late Latin "profusio," a noun built on "profundere," meaning "to pour forth" or "to pour out lavishly." The root image is of liquid spilling over, which explains why the word still carries a sense of overflowing abundance rather than simple quantity. Used in the plural, "profusions" refers to several distinct outpourings or instances of such abundance, as in a writer's profusions of metaphor or a garden's several profusions of blossom.

Synonyms: abundance, plenty