mushroom
Definition
A fleshy, spore-bearing fruiting body of a fungus, typically produced above ground on soil or on a food source, distinguished by its umbrella-shaped cap.
Something resembling a mushroom in shape or rapid growth, such as a mushroom cloud from a nuclear explosion.
Informally, a psychedelic fungus containing psilocybin, often called 'magic mushrooms' for their hallucinogenic effects.
To expand or proliferate rapidly and suddenly, like 'the population mushroomed'.
Examples
After the storm, mushrooms popped up in the yard like nature's attempt at abstract art.
His fanbase mushroomed overnight when he went viral dancing with a pizza.
She foraged for mushrooms but wisely skipped the ones that looked like they were plotting world domination.
The startup's valuation mushroomed faster than rumors at a family reunion.