# spreading

/ˈspɹɛdɪŋ/ (US) · /spɹˈɛdɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/spreading
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. expansion or distribution

noun · CEFR B1

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

For teachers: 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.

### 2. covering or opening out

verb · CEFR A2

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

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The spreading of the news took only a few minutes.
- Health officials are working hard to prevent the further spreading of the virus throughout the local community.
- The rapid spreading of democratic ideals across the continent during that decade was facilitated by the sudden availability of cheap, mobile printing presses.

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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.