mausern
Translation
to moult, to shed feathers, (sich) to develop, (sich) to blossom
Examples
Der Kanarienvogel mausert im Frühling.
The canary moults in the spring.
Der schüchterne Junge hat sich richtig gemausert.
The shy boy has really blossomed.
Grammar Patterns
sich mausern to develop, to blossom (for people) The boy has really blossomed in one year.
mausern to moult (for birds, etc.) The parrot moults twice a year.
Similar Words
Synonyms: sich verändern (to change), sich entwickeln (to develop)
Etymology
From Middle High German 'mūzen', related to Latin 'mutare' (to change).
Memory Tips
Imagine a mouse ('Maus') changing its fur to a new, better one. This links both meanings: moulting and developing into something better.