Diffusion

/dɪˈfjuːʒən/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The process by which molecules intermingle as a result of their kinetic energy of random motion.

The diffusion of perfume in the room created a pleasant atmosphere.

The spreading of something more widely.

The diffusion of technology has transformed communication.

The movement of particles from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration.

Oxygen enters cells through diffusion from areas of high concentration in the lungs.

In sociology, the spread of cultural items or social practices from one group to another.

The diffusion of cultural practices can lead to a blending of traditions.

A term used in physics, particularly in the context of wave propagation.

The diffusion of light as it passes through the fog created a mystical scene.

From Latin 'diffusio', from 'diffundere' meaning 'to pour out, spread out'.

cultural diffusion

The spread of cultural beliefs and social activities from one group to another.

diffusion of innovation

The process by which an innovation is communicated and accepted over time among members of a social system.

diffusion theory

A theory that describes how, why, and at what rate new ideas and technology spread.

osmosis

The process of gradual or unconscious assimilation of ideas.

dispersion

The action or process of distributing things or people over a wide area.

A term used in social media to describe how trends spread quickly.

That meme went viral due to diffusion within the platform.

In scientific circles, the casual reference to the spread of compounds in experiments.

The researcher observed diffusion of the dye in the beaker.