Spread

/sprɛd/

Meaning & Definition

noun

an act of spreading; an instance or manner of distribution.

There was a wide spread of opinions regarding the new policy.

a continuous area or extent of something.

The spread of the disease was alarming.

a layout or presentation, especially in a magazine or book.

The magazine featured a two-page spread of the fashion show.

verb

to extend over a larger area; to distribute widely.

The news of the discovery spread quickly across the globe.

to open or arrange something so that it covers a larger area.

She spread the blanket out on the grass for the picnic.

to apply (a substance) over a surface.

He spread butter on his toast for breakfast.

Old English 'spræddan', related to the notion of extension.

spread the word

To inform others about something.

spread like wildfire

To increase rapidly in number or effect.

spread one's wings

To begin to explore new opportunities.

spreader

A tool or device used to distribute something.

spreadable

Able to be spread easily, typically referring to food.

spreadable (adjective)

Capable of being spread out or distributed.

To share something widely, especially on social media.

I saw that post spread all over Instagram.

To flaunt or show off something, particularly wealth or style.

He’s really spreading with that new car of his.