# permeated

/ˈpɝmiˌeɪtɪd/ (US) · /pˈɜːmɪˌeɪtɪd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/permeated
Updated: 2026-10-13

## Definition

spread throughout every part of something. You use this when a smell, a feeling, or an idea has filled a whole space or group.

For teachers: spread throughout every part of a physical space, substance, or abstract concept. Often used as a participial adjective to describe a state of being saturated or infused.

## Examples

- The smell of fresh coffee permeated the entire house.
- A sense of deep sadness permeated the room as the old man told his story to the family.
- The new ideology permeated every level of the administration, fundamentally altering how policy was drafted and implemented across the various departments.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the preposition 'throughout' or 'through'; frequently appears in the passive voice or as a participial adjective.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.