Propagate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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propagate
[ˈprɒpəˌɡeɪt ]
Definitions
in gardening
To multiply or breed by natural processes; to spread or extend to a wider area or larger number.
Synonyms
breed, extend, multiply, spread.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| propagate |
Usually used in scientific contexts, mentioning the process of spreading something like plants, information, or practices.
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| multiply |
Often used in mathematical contexts or when referring to increasing numbers or quantities significantly.
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| breed |
Mainly used to talk about the reproduction of animals and sometimes plants.
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| spread |
Commonly used for distributing things widely, like news, diseases, or substances. Frequently has a neutral or negative connotation.
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| extend |
Suitable when talking about making something longer or larger in size, time, or range.
|
Examples of usage
- The plant propagates easily from cuttings.
- These flowers propagate rapidly in the wild.
in science
To transmit or cause to spread from one person or place to another.
Synonyms
disseminate, spread, transmit.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| propagate |
This word is often used in scientific or technical settings, particularly when discussing the reproduction or multiplication of plants, animals, or ideas.
|
| transmit |
Often used in technical or medical contexts, this word refers to the passing of something from one person or place to another. It is frequently used in discussions about diseases or signals.
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| spread |
This is a general term that can be used in various situations to indicate the distribution of something over a large area or number of people. It can refer to both physical and abstract things.
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| disseminate |
This is a more formal term, typically used when referring to the distribution or spreading of information, ideas, or knowledge to a wide audience.
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Examples of usage
- Disease can propagate through contaminated water.
- The rumor propagated quickly through the community.
in physics
To transmit a wave, motion, or vibration.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| propagate |
Use this word when referring to the transmission of information, ideas, or biological entities like plants and species. It often has a technical or scientific connotation.
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| transmit |
Appropriate for conveying signals, messages, or diseases. It often has a technical or medical connotation.
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| carry |
This word is suitable for physical transportation of objects or for bearing responsibility or burden. It has a broad usage and is common in everyday language.
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| move |
Best used when referring to changing the position or location of someone or something. It can be physical or metaphorical and is very versatile.
|
Examples of usage
- Sound waves propagate through air.
- The earthquake propagated along the fault line.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In biology, propagation refers to the process of creating new plants either from seeds or cuttings.
- People also propagate sound waves when they travel through different mediums.
- Genetic propagation allows scientists to clone species, helping to preserve endangered plants and animals.
Technology
- In computer science, propagation refers to the spread of data or signals through networks.
- Propagation models help tech developers understand how wireless signals travel through various environments.
- With social media, ideas can propagate rapidly, reaching thousands in seconds.
Cultural Practices
- Many cultures use propagation methods in gardening to ensure food sources grow abundantly.
- Practices like sharing folklore or traditions help propagate cultural identities through generations.
- In religion, teachings are propagated to spread beliefs and values universally.
Psychology
- Information propagation plays a role in how rumors spread and influence behavior.
- Psychological studies show that emotions can propagate in groups, affecting overall mood.
- The concept of social propagation suggests that good deeds or positive actions can inspire others to act similarly.
Origin of 'propagate'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'propagare', which means 'to propagate' or 'to spread out'.
- It's formed from 'pro-' meaning 'forward' and 'pagus' meaning 'to set or fix'.
- Historically, the term was used in agriculture and gardening before spreading to other fields.
The word 'propagate' originated from the Latin word 'propagatus', which means 'to reproduce, spread, extend'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. Initially used in the context of plant reproduction, the term later expanded to include the transmission of ideas, diseases, and waves. Over time, 'propagate' has become a versatile word used in various fields to describe the process of multiplication, transmission, or spreading.