vernal

Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day for March 20, 2025, is "vernal," a formal adjective that describes something related to or occurring in the spring. The word is often used to describe the blooming of trees and flowers during this season. An example of its usage can be seen in the sentence, "It is such a relief after a long, cold winter to see the trees and flowers in their glorious vernal bloom." The word "vernal" is also used in a passage by Christopher Norment, where he describes experiencing different seasons, including "vernal rain." The word's meaning can be inferred from context, as seen in the poem "Runoff" by Sidney Burris, where the arrival of the sun and melting snow and ice evoke a sense of spring. The word "vernal" has been in use in English since the early 16th century, originating from the Latin adjective "vernālis," which is derived from the noun "vēr," meaning "spring." The vernal equinox occurs in late March in the northern hemisphere and late September in the southern hemisphere. The word "vernal" is often associated with optimism and renewal, as seen in the poem "Runoff." The use of "vernal" adds a touch of formality to descriptions of the spring season. Overall, "vernal" is a word that evokes the beauty and renewal of spring.