effuse

UK: ɪˈfjuːz | US: ɪˈfjuːz

Definition

  1. vt. to pour out or spread widely (a liquid, light, or emotion)

  2. vi. to flow out freely

  3. adj. (archaic) spread out loosely; not concentrated

Structure
ef <out>fuse <pour>ef <out>fuse <pour>
Etymology

The word "effuse" traces back to Latin effusus, the past participle of effundere ("to pour out"). It combines ex- (intensifying "outward") and fundere ("to flow"), reflecting a vivid image of uncontrolled spreading—whether liquid, light, or emotion. Over time, it broadened from literal pouring (e.g., "effused blood") to metaphorical diffusion (e.g., "effused joy").

Examples

  1. The wound began to effuse blood rapidly.

  2. Sunlight effused through the stained-glass window.

  3. She effused gratitude upon receiving the award.

  4. The volcano effused lava for days.

  5. His speech effused optimism about the future.