100+ Words That Bloom in May

If there’s any month that deserves your attention, it’s gonna be May. Let’s look at the words that make May such a special time of year.

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1. Mother’s Day

Moms in the number one spot? Seems correct. May is synonymous with Mother’s Day. Moms are special every day, but this is the day to express gratitude for everything she does. 

2. Memorial Day

Photo of a cemetery for veterans

Memorial Day is another day that many celebrate, but it’s also a time for remembrance. This day honors those who’ve served in the armed forces. Although it is synonymous with parades and barbecues, it’s important to take a moment to appreciate those who made it possible.

3. Cinco de Mayo 

You might know Cinco de Mayo (or May 5th) for delicious food and maybe a margarita or two, but did you know this May celebration marks the victory of the Mexican army over French forces?

4. Month 

May is, if anything, a month in the year. It’s the fifth of twelve, marking almost half a year that has gone by. It’s also the time when we’re all surprised it’s actually May already. Where did the time go?

5. Spring

Photo of flowers in full bloom

Spring is in full swing by May, and you can see the world waking up from its winter slumber. The flowers are blooming, and the air is filled with the scent of fresh grass. Yes, the first day of spring is technically March 20th. But it doesn’t really feel like spring until the beginning of May for most of the country.

6. Sunshine

May marks the beginning of longer days. And longer days mean brighter skies thanks to lots and lots of sunshine. It’s time to soak up the rays and get the vitamin D we crave. And maybe a nice base tan before summer officially sets in? 

7. Warmth

You can’t have sunshine without warmth! And in May, we’re feeling it inside and out. Warmer weather is on its way and here to stay. But not only that, people are warming up and spending more time outside! 

8. Maypole

Maypoles are painted, decorated poles used for celebration. People usually dance around them on May Day, grabbing the ribbons and running with glee. 

This is primarily a children’s activity and is found in European folk culture. But if you have a spare pole and a song, nothing’s stopping you from celebrating May this way!

9. Mayflowers 

Photo of a mayflower in full bloom

April showers bring May flowers. This is the time of year when the world is in full bloom. Some flowers, like Lily of the Valley, are associated with May. It’s actually one of two birth flowers in May, the other being the Hawthorne. May is the only month to have two birth flowers!

10. Cookouts

Now that the weather is getting nicer, May is when the rest of the country starts cooking outside more! Grilling and potlucks become a weekend standard. And more importantly, we start to see the emergence of fresh spring produce on our tables!

11. Nature

Nature is almost done thawing from winter come May. The flora and fauna literally come back to life. The nicer weather means more people are spending time outdoors connecting with nature. And the beautiful swathes of green are a sight to behold.   

12. Emerald

May’s birthstone is the emerald. Emeralds are a gorgeous green color and have been considered a precious gem for centuries. It was Queen Cleopatra’s favorite gemstone, and it’s still associated with royalty to this day. The stone symbolizes truth and love — two things we could use more of every month.

13. Picnics 

We’ve already mentioned some of the best ingredients for a day outside. Sunshine, warmth, and nature all lead to one thing: more picnics! May is the perfect balance of not too hot and not too cold to dine comfortably al fresco. So pack up some snacks, go for a hike, and enjoy the beauty of nature on your lunch hour.

14. Graduation

Students graduating

Congrats, grads — this is your month to shine! May is the most popular month for commencement ceremonies. It’s also the end of the spring semester for basically all schools. It’s time to nab that diploma just in time for summer break!

15. Festivals

Graduation isn’t the only thing people are celebrating in May. May is packed with outdoor festivals, no matter where you go in the world. Some people are just enjoying the weather, while others are honoring their heritage. Either way, this is an excellent time to connect with your community.

16. Spring Cleaning

Spring is still in full swing in May. So is spring cleaning! Homeowners everywhere are dusting, sweeping, and Marie Kondo-ing the forgotten corners of their properties. And those who aren’t already know their window of opportunity is closing, because summer is on its way!

17. Prom

High schoolers everywhere are on the hunt for the prom dress of the season in May. Most schools host prom in May because it’s close to the end of the school year. Prom is also a celebration of transition for teenagers, so it makes sense to have it in spring. It also makes sure those corsages are nice and fresh!

18. Radiance 

May is a month to radiate peace and beauty. You can feel the energy and vibrancy in the air. The combination of blooming nature and extra sunlight reminds us to shine brightly in our lives. So if you’ve been waiting for a sign to feel radiant, mark your calendars for May every year!

19. Taurus

Tauren energy dominates the first half of May. Taurus, an earth sign, is often associated with a love for comfort and beauty. Taureans are also considered reliable and grounded. But since this is also your birthday month, you might be more inclined to be a bit more materialistic!

20. Gemini

Moo-ve over, bulls — Gemini takes over the month of May on the 21st. While it’s only part of the month, Geminis are a force to be reckoned with in astrology. 

If you’re a Gemini, don’t be surprised if you feel like shining brighter this time of year. And if your birthday is in May, don’t forget to celebrate what makes you uniquely Gemini — both halves!

21. Garland

Since May is when all the pretty flowers bloom, it makes sense that this is when garlands appear, too! Garlands are a common decoration made from flowers and other greenery. You’ll see them adorn maypoles or even churches as a celebration of nature and springtime. You can even make your own garlands with flowers to celebrate May this year.

More Words Related to May

  1. May Day
  2. Labor Day (International)
  3. Beltane
  4. Lily of the Valley
  5. Hawthorn
  6. Allergies
  7. Verdant
  8. Lush
  9. Sprouts
  10. Canopy
  11. Songbirds
  12. Nesting
  13. Fawns
  14. Breezy
  15. Mild
  16. Thaw
  17. Gardening
  18. Hiking
  19. Biking
  20. Fishing
  21. Sailing
  22. Strolls
  23. Outdoor Yoga
  24. Kite Flying
  25. Barbecues
  26. Field Trips
  27. Reunions
  28. Yard Sales
  29. Rooftop Parties
  30. May Baskets
  31. Star Wars Day
  32. Kentucky Derby
  33. Indianapolis 500
  34. Cannes Film Festival
  35. Eurovision
  36. Bank Holiday
  37. Lag BaOmer
  38. Vesak
  39. Europe Day
  40. Maia (Goddess)
  41. Possibility
  42. Artichokes
  43. Radishes
  44. Fresh Herbs
  45. Iced Tea
  46. Sangria
  47. Sorbet
  48. Joyful
  49. Cheerful
  50. Vibrant
  51. Lively
  52. Zest
  53. Anticipation
  54. Freedom
  55. Merriment
  56. Bloom
  57. Buds
  58. Seedlings
  59. Petals
  60. Pollen
  61. Greenery
  62. Bees
  63. Butterflies
  64. Dew
  65. Blue Skies
  66. Planting
  67. Bike rides
  68. Outdoor dining
  69. Open windows
  70. Fresh air
  71. Farmer’s markets
  72. Spring vegetables
  73. Asparagus
  74. Strawberries
  75. Rhubarb
  76. Wildflowers
  77. Picnic baskets
  78. Swing sets
  79. Lemonade
  80. Sunhats
  81. Sunglasses
  82. Floral prints
  83. Shorts season
  84. Patio season
  85. Baseball games
  86. Mother Earth
  87. Eco-consciousness
  88. Nature hikes
  89. Weekend getaways
  90. Travel planning
  91. Weddings
  92. Engagements
  93. Anniversaries
  94. May Queen
  95. Ribbons
  96. Bonfires
  97. Love
  98. Fertility
  99. Hope
  100. Youth
  101. Playfulness
  102. Joy
  103. Optimism
  104. Growth
  105. Renewal
  106. Awakening
  107. Rebirth
  108. Freshness
  109. Grounding
  110. Earth energy
  111. Open-Air Concerts
  112. Street Fairs
  113. Flower crowns