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Propagating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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propagating

[ˈprɒp.ə.ɡeɪ.tɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in agriculture

Propagating refers to the process of reproducing plants by growing them from seeds, cuttings, or other plant parts. This method is commonly used in agriculture to increase the number of plants for commercial purposes.

Synonyms

breeding, cultivating, multiplying.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
propagating

Usually used in the context of spreading information, beliefs, or ideas, but can also refer to the reproduction of plants.

  • He spent years propagating his ideas about environmental conservation
  • Gardeners are propagating new plant varieties
breeding

Commonly used when referring to the reproduction or raising of animals, especially in a controlled environment.

  • The farm is focused on breeding high-quality horses
  • Breeding exotic fish requires special knowledge
cultivating

Typically refers to the process of growing and caring for plants, but can also mean fostering skills or relationships.

  • She is cultivating a beautiful garden in her backyard
  • Cultivating a good relationship with your colleagues is important
multiplying

Generally used to describe the process of increasing in number, often in terms of population or quantities. It can be used to discuss both plants and animals, as well as abstract concepts like problems or profits.

  • The bacteria are multiplying rapidly in the petri dish
  • His investments are multiplying, leading to significant profits

Examples of usage

  • Farmers are propagating new varieties of tomatoes for better yields.
  • Gardeners propagate roses by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in soil.
Context #2 | Verb

in information dissemination

Propagating can also refer to the spreading of information, ideas, or beliefs to a large audience. This can be done through various means such as social media, advertising, or word of mouth.

Synonyms

disseminating, promoting, spreading.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
propagating

Often used in scientific or formal contexts when referring to the growth or reproduction of plants, animals, or ideas. It is also used when talking about the transmission of waves or signals.

  • The scientists are propagating plants in the laboratory
  • The radio station is propagating its signal over a wide area
promoting

Used when trying to advance, support, or publicize something, often in a marketing, business, or social cause context. It suggests active effort to encourage acceptance or sales.

  • The company is promoting its new product with a big advertising campaign
  • She is promoting environmental awareness through local events
disseminating

Used in contexts where information is being spread widely, especially in academic, medical, or organizational settings. It often implies a structured or systematic way of spreading information.

  • The researchers are disseminating their findings through medical journals
  • The organization is disseminating information about the new policy to all employees
spreading

A general term that can be used in many contexts when something is being distributed over a wider area or to more people. It can be neutral or have negative connotations depending on what is being spread.

  • The rumor is spreading quickly through the office
  • He is spreading butter on his toast

Examples of usage

  • The company is propagating its new product through a marketing campaign.
  • The political party is propagating its ideology through speeches and rallies.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Plants can propagate in different ways: sexually through seeds or asexually using cuttings, bulbs, and runners.
  • Some plants, like strawberries and spider plants, are natural propagators, producing offspring that grow close to the parent.
  • Propagating plants can help gardeners maintain certain species, ensuring their survival and abundance.

Communication

  • In the context of ideas, propagating means sharing information widely, often through social media or public speaking.
  • Propagation of information can lead to trends or movements, as seen in viral campaigns or social causes.
  • Misinformation can also propagate rapidly in the digital age, highlighting the importance of critical thinking.

Technology

  • In technology, 'propagating' can refer to signals or data spreading through networks, like waves through water.
  • Telecommunications often use the concept to explain how messages travel from one point to another.
  • Propagation delays are important considerations in engineering fields, influencing how devices communicate.

Art and Culture

  • Artists may propagate their style or vision through exhibitions and social media, influencing trends.
  • Cultural practices and traditions propagate through generations, preserving the history and identity of communities.
  • Literature often propagates themes or messages that resonate across time, impacting readers in various ways.

Origin of 'propagating'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'propagare', meaning to spread or extend.
  • In the late 1500s, 'propagating' was used to refer to both plants and ideas, showing its versatile nature.
  • It originally described how plants reproduce, but over time it expanded to include sharing knowledge.

The term 'propagating' originated from the Latin word 'propagatus', which means 'propagated' or 'extended'. The word has been used since the 17th century in English, initially in the context of plant reproduction. Over time, its meaning expanded to include the dissemination of information and ideas.

See also: propagation.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,448, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.