propagation
UK: ˌprɒpəˈɡeɪʃən | US: ˌprɑːpəˈɡeɪʃən
n. the act or process of spreading something (e.g., ideas, knowledge, or physical elements) widely
n. (biology) the reproduction or breeding of organisms
n. (physics) the transmission of waves or energy through a medium
propagation = pro<forward> + pag<fix, fasten> + ation<noun suffix>
- pro<forward>: From Latin pro-, meaning "forward" or "in favor of."
- pag<fix, fasten>: From Latin pangere, meaning "to fix" or "to fasten," later evolving to imply "to spread" (as in fixing something in multiple places).
- ation<noun suffix>: A suffix forming nouns indicating an action or process.
Etymology Origin:
The word propagation traces back to Latin propagatio, derived from propagare ("to extend, spread, or multiply"). The root pag- originally meant "to fasten" (as in planting a stake to mark territory), but over time, it metaphorically shifted to mean "spreading" (e.g., plants spreading roots). The prefix pro- emphasizes forward movement, giving the word its modern sense of active dissemination or reproduction.
The rapid propagation of misinformation on social media is a growing concern.
Gardeners use cuttings for the propagation of new plants.
Sound propagation in water differs from its behavior in air.
The propagation of cultural traditions ensures their survival across generations.
Scientists study the propagation of electromagnetic waves in space.