diffusion
UK: dɪˈfjuːʒən | US: dɪˈfjuːʒən
n. the process of spreading or dispersing something more widely
n. (physics) the intermingling of substances by the natural movement of particles
n. (anthropology) the spread of cultural traits from one society to another
diffusion = dif<apart, in different directions> + fus<pour> + ion<noun suffix>
- dif- (variant of dis-): Latin prefix meaning "apart" or "in different directions."
- fus: From Latin fundere, meaning "to pour."
- -ion: Noun-forming suffix indicating an action or process.
Etymology Origin:
The word diffusion originates from Latin diffusio, derived from diffundere ("to pour out or spread"). The root fus (from fundere) reflects the idea of liquid particles spreading outward, which metaphorically extended to concepts like cultural or scientific dispersion. Over time, diffusion evolved to describe both physical processes (e.g., gas particles spreading) and abstract phenomena (e.g., ideas circulating).
The diffusion of perfume molecules filled the room with a pleasant aroma.
Cultural diffusion often occurs through trade and migration.
In biology, osmosis is a type of diffusion involving water molecules.
The invention’s rapid diffusion across continents surprised researchers.
Light diffusion by the frosted glass created a soft glow.