Spread Meaning
Spread Definition & Usage
To extend or distribute something over a surface or area, often in a thin or even layer.
Examples
- "She spread butter evenly over the toast."
- "The news of the company’s success quickly spread across social media."
- "He spread the blanket on the grass before sitting down."
- "A thick fog spread across the valley in the early morning."
- "The teacher spread the assignments out on the table for the class."
To cause something (an idea, feeling, disease, etc.) to become more widespread or to affect a larger number of people or places.
Examples
- "The virus spread rapidly in the community, leading to widespread panic."
- "Her influence spread throughout the company, changing its culture."
- "The protest movement has spread to several cities."
- "The rumor spread like wildfire, and soon everyone knew."
- "Social media has spread awareness about environmental issues globally."
A layer of something that has been spread out, often referring to food or a surface.
Examples
- "She put a thick spread of cream cheese on the bagel."
- "The fields were covered in a green spread of grass."
- "I added a thin spread of jam on my toast."
- "There was a wide spread of flowers in the garden."
- "The table was set with a spread of sandwiches and snacks."
A food item that can be easily spread on surfaces like bread or crackers.
Examples
- "Peanut butter is a popular spread for toast in many countries."
- "She made a homemade spread from avocado and spices."
- "The bakery offers a variety of spreads, including honey and butter."
- "I prefer savory spreads like cream cheese or hummus."
- "There was a generous spread of butter on the fresh rolls."
Cultural Context
The word 'spread' has Old English roots and has evolved into numerous meanings, both literal and figurative. It’s used extensively in various contexts such as food, health, communication, and even in business or social contexts. The idea of spreading has often been associated with movement, dissemination, and the act of reaching or covering a broader area.
The Spread of Ideas
Story
The Spread of Ideas
It was an ordinary afternoon in the small town of Greenfield, yet everything felt unusually tense. The town hall meeting had just concluded, and as the doors swung open, whispers began to spread like wildfire. People were talking about the mayor's controversial proposal to cut down the forest for new housing developments. Among the crowd, Ellie, a local teacher, overheard a conversation about a petition to stop the project. 'I heard it’s already spreading through social media,' one person said, 'and it’s gaining traction.' Ellie felt a rush of determination. She quickly made her way home, logged into her social media accounts, and shared the petition. She watched as the post spread quickly, liked and shared by friends, colleagues, and even strangers. What started as a few individuals’ concern soon began to spread across the entire town, as people from all walks of life voiced their opposition. At the same time, across town, Marcus, a baker, was preparing his famous breakfast spread. He spread thick layers of butter on warm croissants and arranged them on the counter for his customers. A local journalist, who had just visited the town hall, entered the bakery and noticed the spread of pastries. 'You’re spreading joy with these, Marcus,' she joked. He smiled and responded, 'Everyone needs a little comfort food in times like this.' Ellie’s actions had sparked a chain reaction. The ideas about preserving the forest had spread beyond social media to the hearts and minds of many, eventually making their way to the ears of the local government. As for Marcus, his pastry spread continued to bring people together, one croissant at a time. The two events were a reminder of how powerful the act of spreading could be, whether it was a simple idea or a comforting gesture, the ripple effect was undeniable.
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