What does "spreading" mean?

1. (expansion or distribution) the way something moves to cover a larger area or reach more people. 2. (covering or opening out) the action of opening something out or covering a surface with a substance.

spreading

n. · v.

US //ˈspɹɛdɪŋ// UK //spɹˈɛdɪŋ// spread·ing

1 expansion or distribution (n.)
B1 Intermediate

the way something moves to cover a larger area or reach more people.

the act or process of expanding, distributing, or disseminating something across a physical area or a social group.

Example

The spreading of the forest fire was finally stopped by the heavy rain.

Example

Public health officials are focused on the rapid spreading of the virus through urban centres where social distancing is difficult to maintain.
- containment
- reduction
2 covering or opening out (v.)
A2 Elementary

the action of opening something out or covering a surface with a substance.

the present participle of 'spread', describing the ongoing action of extending something in space or applying a substance.

Example

She is spreading butter on her toast while the coffee brews.

Example

By spreading the map out across the dining table, the hikers were able to plan their route through the valley with greater precision.
- folding
- closing

Etymology 1

By surface analysis, spread + -ing.

Etymology 2

Blend of speed + reading.

Word family

Nounreading
Nounspreading