Spread: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'spread' comes from Old English 'spearwan,' meaning to scatter or spread out.
• It has been used in English since the early 14th century, often in the context of extending or expanding something.
• Related words in other languages point to a common need to describe the act of opening out or extending, like in Spanish 'esparcir.'

Psychology

• In psychological terms, 'spread' can refer to how information or emotions can be disseminated through social networks.
• The 'spread of emotions' theory suggests that people's feelings can influence those around them, creating an emotional ripple effect.
• Studies show that good news spreads more quickly than bad news, influencing group dynamics and perceptions.

Pop Culture

• In social media, 'spread' often refers to how quickly a meme or trend can gain popularity.
• The 'spread' of music genres can be seen through global hits that start in one country and become worldwide sensations, like K-Pop.
• In cooking shows, 'spread' is frequently used to describe the process of layering and distributing ingredients.

Literature

• In literature, 'spread' can denote the unfolding of a story over time, with plot and characters expanding in complexity.
• Poets often use the imagery of 'spreading' to depict themes of growth and change in nature or human experience.
• The 'spread' format in magazines allows multiple stories or visuals to be viewed at once, showcasing diverse narratives.

Science

• In biology, 'spread' can describe how species extend their habitats, adapting to new environments.
• The concept of 'spread' is significant in epidemiology, referring to how diseases move through populations.
• Mathematics uses the term 'spread' to describe the distribution of data points or the dispersion of values around a mean.

Positioned at #1,497, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.

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