WordLens

spread

1 of 3verb
/sprɛd/
Forms:spreads,spreading,spread,spread
1

to extend or increase in influence or effect over a larger area or group of people

B1
  • The flu virus can easily spread in crowded places.
  • Right now, concerns about the pandemic are spreading across the globe.
  • The excitement of the victory spread to the fans.
  • Fear of the outbreak spread throughout the city.
  • The new trend spread rapidly among young people.
Synonyms:
2

to open something that is closed or folded

transitive
  • She spread the blanket on the grass for a picnic.
  • He spread the newspaper on the table to read.
  • The teacher spread the map to illustrate geography.
  • The butterfly spread its wings wide after emerging from the chrysalis.
  • The yoga instructor instructed the class to spread their mats for the session.
Antonyms:
3

to extend something across a surface or throughout a space

transitive
  • The gardener spread fertilizer across the entire lawn to promote healthy grass growth.
  • The chef instructed the kitchen staff to spread herbs generously over the pizza before baking.
  • The artist spread the paint across the canvas, creating bold strokes of color.
  • He spread the fertilizer evenly across the lawn to promote healthy grass growth.
4

to put a layer of a smooth or soft substance over a surface

transitive
  • She spread butter on her toast before adding the jam.
  • He spread cream cheese on the bagel for breakfast.
  • The painter spread primer over the walls before applying the final coat of paint.
  • She spread a thin layer of sunscreen over her face to protect her skin from the sun.
  • He spread peanut butter on the crackers for a quick snack.
Synonyms:
5

to cause something to reach or affect a larger area or group of people

transitive
  • The campaign spread its influence to neighboring cities.
  • The charity spread its efforts to other regions in need of help.
  • The virus was spread by infected travelers to other countries.
  • His actions spread confusion during the meeting.
  • The firefighters spread the water over the fire to control the flames.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
6

to make more people know or be aware of something by sharing or promoting it

transitive
  • The organization spread awareness about the importance of environmental conservation through educational campaigns.
  • The activists spread information about human rights violations in the region.
  • The teacher encouraged students to spread the word about the upcoming charity event to raise funds for a local cause.
  • She was upset when someone spread a rumor about her promotion.
  • The company's marketing strategy included leveraging influencers to spread awareness of its new product launch.
7

to extend or stretch something out

transitive
  • The eagle spread its wings wide as it soared gracefully through the sky.
  • The cat stretched and spread its body across the sunny spot on the windowsill.
  • The yoga instructor instructed the class to spread their legs and reach towards their toes.
  • The dancer spread her fingers elegantly as she gracefully moved across the stage.
8

to cover or overlay a surface with a substance, material, or object

transitive
  • The artist spread the sculpture with a layer of wax to give it a glossy finish.
  • They spread the driveway with gravel to improve its appearance and durability.
  • They spread the bricks with mortar before laying the next row in the wall.
  • The mechanic spread the car windshield with a layer of de-icer before driving.
9

to become known by a larger group of people

  • The rumor spread quickly throughout the office.
  • The news about the new law spread rapidly across the country.
  • The message of peace spread through the community.
  • The influence of Christianity spread throughout Europe.
  • The story of his bravery spread throughout the village.