Spread

Definition

The term "spread" refers to the act of extending, distributing, or dispersing something over an area, or to a food substance that is spreadable.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sprɛd/
• Respelling: SPRED

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sprɛd/
• Respelling: SPRED

Etymology

The word "spread" originates from the Old English "sprǣdan," meaning "to stretch out," which is derived from Proto-Germanic "*spreitōną." The term is closely related to Dutch "spreiden" and German "spreiten," which also mean "to spread."

Derivatives

• Spreading (verb)
• Spreadable (adjective)
• Overspread (verb)
• Spread-out (adjective)
• Respread (verb)

Synonyms

• Disperse
• Expand
• Distribute

Antonyms

• Concentrate
• Gather
• Contain

Usage

The term "spread" is used in various contexts, such as to describe the act of covering an area ("The fire spread quickly across the forest"), or to refer to a food item ("The jam is a popular spread for toast").

Related Terms

• Disperse: To distribute over a wide area.
• Expand: To increase in size or area.
• Broadcast: To spread information widely.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To extend or distribute something over an area:
  • Example: "She spread the map on the table."
• To become distributed over an area:
  • Example: "The news of the event spread quickly."
• To apply a substance in an even layer:
  • Example: "He spread butter on his bread."

Noun

• An act of extending or distributing something:
  • Example: "The spread of the disease caused concern."
• A substance, such as butter or jam, used for coating bread:
  • Example: "She chose a strawberry spread for her toast."
• A range or variety of something:
  • Example: "The buffet offered an impressive spread of dishes."