proliferation
UK: /prəˌlɪf.əˈreɪ.ʃən/ | US: /prəˌlɪf.əˈreɪ.ʃən/
n. rapid increase in the number or amount of something
n. (biology) the growth or production of cells or organisms
prolifer<offspring> + ation<noun suffix>
- prolifer: From Latin proles (offspring) + ferre (to bear), meaning "to bear offspring."
- ation: A noun-forming suffix indicating an action or process.
Etymology Origin:
The word proliferation traces back to Latin proles (offspring) and ferre (to bear), combining to form proliferare (to generate offspring). Over time, it evolved into English to describe rapid multiplication, initially in biological contexts (e.g., cell growth) and later extended to abstract quantities (e.g., nuclear weapons). The suffix -ation solidifies its meaning as a process.
The proliferation of smartphones has transformed communication.
Cancer is characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of cells.
The treaty aims to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons.
Social media led to the proliferation of fake news.
Rapid urban proliferation threatens natural habitats.