godan verb (-bu), intransitive verb
begin to open; come out
Describes buds, flowers, or similar things starting to open. Often used for blossoms beginning to bloom.
桜のつぼみがほころび始めた。
The cherry blossom buds have begun to open.
godan verb (-bu), intransitive verb
Used when a person's expression softens into a smile, often with 顔がほころぶ. Implies a natural, warm smile.
See also: 顔がほころぶ
赤ちゃんを見て、彼女の顔がほころんだ。
Her face broke into a smile when she saw the baby.
godan verb (-bu), intransitive verb
come apart at the seams
Specifically for clothing seams splitting or coming undone. Less common than the other senses.
このズボンは縫い目がほころびやすい。
These trousers tend to come apart at the seams easily.