spreading
- 01 B1 Intermediate
n.the way something moves to cover a larger area or reach more people.
n.the act or process of expanding, distributing, or disseminating something across a physical area or a social group.
Simple“The spreading of the forest fire was finally stopped by the heavy rain.”
In context“Public health officials are focused on the rapid spreading of the virus through urban centres where social distancing is difficult to maintain.”
Antonyms - 02 A2 Elementary
v.the action of opening something out or covering a surface with a substance.
v.the present participle of 'spread', describing the ongoing action of extending something in space or applying a substance.
Simple“She is spreading butter on her toast while the coffee brews.”
In context“By spreading the map out across the dining table, the hikers were able to plan their route through the valley with greater precision.”
Synonyms
Usage spreading false
By surface analysis, spread + -ing.
Blend of speed + reading.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.