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DictionarydiffusionSpreading
noun

diffusion

dih-FYOO-zhun/dɪˈfjuːʒn/

The spreading of something through an area, substance, or population.

The sequence shows diffusion spreading blue dye through water.

A drop of blue dye gradually spreads throughout clear water in three successive views.
Etymology
difLatinapart, in every direction
+fusLatinto pour
+ionLatinaction or process

The original image is pouring something out in every direction. A word for a copious outpouring broadened to describe spreading more generally, including the dispersion of knowledge.

In context

FREE CSEC SCIENCE LESSONS (FCL)2:28
until they're evenly spread this process or this movement or this spreading is called diffusion
DIFFUSION made SIMPLE!

More examples

  • The study tracked the diffusion of new farming methods.
  • Diffusion gradually reduced the concentration difference.
  • The internet accelerated the diffusion of the idea.

Forms

diffusion

diffuse verb — spread through a space or medium

Similar words

dispersal
Dispersal spreads things apart; diffusion often describes gradual spread throughout a medium or population.
transmission
Transmission passes something onward; diffusion emphasizes its wider distribution.