Distribute

Definition

Distribute is a verb that means to divide and give out something among several people or locations. It can refer to the act of spreading items or information over an area or to assigning tasks or responsibilities among individuals.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈstrɪbjuːt/
• Respelling: dih-STRIB-yoot

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈstrɪbjuːt/ or /ˈdɪstrɪbjuːt/
• Respelling: dih-STRIB-yoot or DIS-trib-yoot

Etymology

The word "distribute" originates from the Latin "distribuere," which combines "dis-" (apart) and "tribuere" (to allot or give). The term entered Middle English via Old French in the 14th century with the meaning of sharing or dispersing items among individuals.

Derivatives

• Distribution (noun)
• Distributor (noun)
• Redistribute (verb)
• Distributive (adjective)
• Distributable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Allocate
• Dispense
• Spread

Antonyms

• Collect
• Withhold
• Accumulate

Usage

The verb "distribute" is commonly used in contexts involving the allocation or delivery of items or resources, such as "The organization distributes food to families in need." It is also applicable in contexts of spreading information or dividing work, as in "Tasks were distributed among the team members."

Related Terms

• Allocation: The process of assigning or dividing resources.
• Supply: The act of providing or making something available.
• Division: The act of separating or dividing something into parts.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To divide and give out in shares: Refers to the act of allotting items, resources, or information among multiple recipients.
  • Example: "The manager distributed the materials to each team member."
• To spread or scatter over an area: Describes the action of dispersing items or information widely.
  • Example: "Seeds were distributed evenly across the field."
• To assign roles, tasks, or responsibilities: Indicates the allocation of duties among a group.
  • Example: "Responsibilities were distributed among the staff."