dispersal
UK: dɪˈspɜːsl | US: dɪˈspɜːrsl
n. the act or process of spreading or distributing over a wide area
n. (biology) the movement of organisms away from their birthplace
The word "dispersal" originates from Latin dispersus (past participle of dispergere, meaning "to scatter abroad"). The morpheme dis- (apart) combines with perse (from Latin spargere, "to scatter"), and the suffix -al forms a noun indicating an action or process. The term evolved in Middle French (disperser) before entering English, retaining its core idea of spreading or separating things widely.
Wind aids the dispersal of plant seeds across large distances.
The dispersal of protesters was handled peacefully by the police.
Animal dispersal patterns are studied to understand migration habits.
The artist’s work explores themes of cultural dispersal and identity.
Rapid urban dispersal has led to environmental challenges.