Word
spreading
Phoneticsspread·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈspɹɛdɪŋ/
UK/spɹˈɛdɪŋ/
Definitions
01expansion or distribution
B1 · Intermediate Uncountable noun
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.
“The spreading of the forest fire was finally stopped by the heavy rain.”
“Public health officials are focused on the rapid spreading of the virus through urban centres where social distancing is difficult to maintain.”
Antonyms
02covering or opening out
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.
“She is spreading butter on her toast while the coffee brews.”
“By spreading the map out across the dining table, the hikers were able to plan their route through the valley with greater precision.”
Synonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “spreading” in context.
Etymology
By surface analysis, spread + -ing.
Blend of speed + reading.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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