seedling; young successor; sign
Meanings
3 senses · 7 examplesnoun
seedling; young plant; sprout
dialectCommonly used in dialects to refer to young plants before transplanting.
These corn seedlings are growing really strong.
The seedlings had just sprouted in the field when they were eaten by insects.
noun
promising young successor; talented youth; protege
Figurative usage praising a young person as having potential to carry on a tradition, craft, or career.
He is a promising young talent with great potential for cultivation.
The coach immediately recognized that this child was promising material for table tennis.
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That old painter took on several promising young apprentices.
noun
sign; trend; indication; early symptom
dialectDialectal usage referring to early signs or tendencies of how a situation will develop.
I see signs that this matter will work out; it looks promising.
Bad tendencies should be nipped in the bud.