Permeated: meaning, definitions and examples

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permeated

 

[ˈpɜːr.mi.eɪtɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

process of spreading

To permeate means to spread or seep through something. It often refers to the way a substance, such as liquid or gas, can penetrate and saturate another substance. This term can also be used metaphorically to describe how an idea or feeling can influence or infuse a particular space or environment. For example, a scent may permeate the air, or a mood may permeate a gathering. The concept emphasizes the thoroughness and depth of the spreading process.

Synonyms

fill, infuse, penetrate, pervade, saturate.

Examples of usage

  • The smell of fresh coffee permeated the room.
  • Joy permeated the atmosphere at the celebration.
  • The water permeated the soil quickly.
  • Sadness permeated the gathering after the news.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'permeare', meaning 'to go through'.
  • It originally described liquids passing through porous materials, like water through soil.
  • The prefix 'per-' means 'through', while 'meare' relates to 'to go', emphasizing the idea of something flowing through.

Science

  • In chemistry, permeation is essential for understanding how substances interact, such as gases moving through membranes.
  • Water permeating soil is critical in agriculture, affecting how plants receive moisture and nutrients.
  • In biology, the permeability of cell membranes determines what substances can enter or exit a cell, influencing cellular function.

Literature

  • Authors often use the concept of 'permeated' to describe themes that saturate a story, such as love or conflict spreading through the narrative.
  • In poetry, imagery can evoke feelings that are permeated by emotions like sorrow or joy.
  • Classic novels often explore how societal issues permeate the lives of characters, affecting their decisions and relationships.

Cultural Impact

  • In the realm of fashion, certain styles can become permeated in society, influencing attitudes towards appearance.
  • Pop culture references, such as songs and films, can permeate community values and norms.
  • The spread of global trends often permeates local cultures, sometimes leading to a blend of traditional and modern practices.

Psychology

  • Emotions like anxiety can permeate thoughts, impacting decision-making and overall mental health.
  • Cultural values often permeate individual beliefs from a young age, shaping identity and behavior.
  • In therapy, certain patterns of thought can be identified as having permeated a person's life, affecting their relationships and self-view.

Translations

Translations of the word "permeated" in other languages:

🇵🇹 permeado

🇮🇳 व्याप्त

🇩🇪 durchdrungen

🇮🇩 meresap

🇺🇦 проникнутий

🇵🇱 przeniknięty

🇯🇵 浸透した

🇫🇷 imprégné

🇪🇸 permeado

🇹🇷 sızmış

🇰🇷 스며든

🇸🇦 مخترق

🇨🇿 proniknutý

🇸🇰 preniknutý

🇨🇳 渗透的

🇸🇮 prežet

🇮🇸 gegnumfari

🇰🇿 сіңген

🇬🇪 გავლილი

🇦🇿 nüfuz etmiş

🇲🇽 permeado

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,408, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.