flo·res·cence \flōˈresən(t)s, flȯˈ-, fləˈ-\noun (-s) Etymology: New Latin florescentia, from Latin florescent-, florescens (present participle of florescere to begin to bloom, incho. of florēre to bloom) + -ia -y — more at flourish 1.: a state or period of being in bloom or of flourishing < the highest florescence of a civilization > 2.: an act of unfolding into or as if into the open flower : anthesis, blossoming