Permeating: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'permeare,' meaning 'to pass through' or 'to go through.'
• It combines 'per-' meaning 'through' and 'meare' meaning 'to go or pass.'
• The term has evolved from its original usage in the 14th century to describe more than just physical passage.

Science

• In chemistry, permeation refers to the process where a substance moves through another, like gases through membranes.
• In biology, substances can permeate cell membranes, influencing how organisms take in nutrients and expel waste.
• Permeating is fundamental in environmental studies, such as how pollutants spread through soil or water.

Literature

• Writers often use the idea of permeating to evoke themes of change, such as how a character's influence spreads through a community.
• Poems may describe love or emotions as permeating the air, illustrating deep connections.
• Imagery in literature can show how memories permeate a person’s mind, affecting their thoughts and actions.

Cultural Significance

• In art, colors can permeate a canvas, influencing the mood and message of the piece as they blend together.
• Certain cultural practices and ideas can permeate societies, transforming lifestyles and traditions over time.
• The concept of permeating often appears in discussions about globalization, where cultures spread and influence one another.

Psychology

• Permeating can describe how thoughts or feelings infiltrate our minds, affecting our behaviors and decisions.
• In mental health, therapeutic ideas can permeate a person’s outlook, leading to positive changes.

At rank #26,726, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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