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Proliferate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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proliferate

[prษ™หˆlษชfษ™reษชt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in nature

To grow rapidly in number; multiply

Synonyms

multiply, propagate, spread.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
proliferate

This term is often used in formal or academic contexts when talking about the rapid growth or increase in numbers, particularly concerning cells, ideas, or technologies.

  • During the 20th century, nuclear weapons proliferated rapidly
  • Cancer cells can proliferate uncontrollably
multiply

This word is commonly used in everyday language and mathematics to describe the simple increase of numbers or quantities. It can refer to both literal and figurative multiplication.

  • The bacteria can multiply within hours under the right conditions
  • Two multiplied by three equals six
spread

This is a versatile term that can be used in everyday conversation to describe the distribution or expansion of physical objects, substances, information, or even diseases. It can carry a neutral or negative connotation.

  • News of the incident spread quickly across social media
  • The flu spread through the community during winter
propagate

This term is often used in biology to discuss the breeding and production of plants or animals. It can also be used in a more abstract sense to talk about the spread of ideas or information.

  • Gardeners often propagate plants by taking cuttings
  • The government's propaganda was propagated through various media channels

Examples of usage

  • The rabbit population began to proliferate after the removal of predators.
  • The invasive species started to proliferate, threatening the local ecosystem.
Context #2 | Verb

in technology

To increase rapidly in number; reproduce or replicate

Synonyms

multiply, replicate, reproduce.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
proliferate

Use in formal contexts to describe something that is rapidly increasing in number or amount, often in a widespread or uncontrolled manner.

  • The use of smartphones has proliferated in recent years.
  • Fake news can proliferate quickly on social media.
reproduce

Used in contexts related to biology and nature when referring to living organisms creating offspring, or in general when describing the act of making a copy or duplicate of something.

  • Many insects reproduce quickly and in large numbers.
  • Artists often reproduce famous paintings for educational purposes.
replicate

Often used in scientific or technical contexts to describe the process of making an exact copy or reproduction, usually of data, experiments, or biological entities.

  • Scientists were able to replicate the results of the experiment.
  • The virus is known to replicate rapidly in the human body.
multiply

Commonly used in both casual and formal contexts to describe an increase in quantity, usually referring to a straightforward increase in numbers.

  • The rabbits in the field have multiplied over the summer.
  • We need to multiply the result by the number of samples.

Examples of usage

  • The use of social media platforms has caused fake news to proliferate.
  • Digital piracy continues to proliferate despite efforts to combat it.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, cells proliferate through processes like mitosis, a crucial part of growth and healing.
  • Bacteria are known for their ability to proliferate rapidly under favorable conditions, showcasing nature's adaptability.
  • In ecology, certain species may proliferate after disturbances like fires, helping ecosystems to recover.

Technology

  • Proliferation of technology refers to the rapid increase in devices like smartphones, changing how we communicate.
  • The rise of the internet has led to the proliferation of information, making data more accessible than ever.
  • Software applications can proliferate through open-source platforms, fostering innovation and collaboration.

Culture

  • Social media has led to the proliferation of trends and memes, reshaping how culture spreads.
  • The proliferation of urban gardens in cities reflects a growing interest in sustainability and local food production.
  • In literature, themes about the proliferation of ideas highlight the power of communication in shaping society.

Economics

  • The proliferation of startups has transformed the business landscape, encouraging innovation and competition.
  • In financial markets, the proliferation of investment options allows consumers to diversify their portfolios.
  • Economics studies how consumer demand can lead to the proliferation of products, affecting market dynamics.

Origin of 'proliferate'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'proliferare,' which means 'to bear offspring.'
  • The root 'proli' refers to 'offspring' or 'descendants,' hinting at growth or multiplication.
  • It was first used in English in the mid-19th century, emphasizing rapid increase in various contexts.

The word 'proliferate' originated from the Latin word 'proliferare', which means to reproduce or bring forth abundantly. It first appeared in English in the mid-19th century. The concept of proliferation can be seen in various aspects of nature, technology, and society, reflecting the inherent tendency of things to grow and multiply rapidly.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,601, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.