scattering
UK: ˈskætərɪŋ | US: ˈskætərɪŋ
n. the act of dispersing or distributing things irregularly over an area
n. (physics) the process in which particles or waves are deflected or diffused in various directions
v. present participle of "scatter" (to throw or distribute loosely)
The word "scattering" derives from the Middle English "scateren," meaning "to disperse," which likely originated from an Old Norse influence ("skatra," to scatter). The root "scatter" embodies the idea of spreading or separating widely, while the suffix "-ing" forms a noun or present participle, indicating the action or result of dispersal. The term evolved to describe both physical dispersion (e.g., seeds) and abstract phenomena (e.g., light or particles in physics).
The wind caused a scattering of leaves across the yard.
In physics, Raman scattering involves changes in light wavelength.
She watched the birds scattering as the dog ran toward them.
The artist created a beautiful effect by scattering glitter on the canvas.
The sudden noise led to a scattering of the crowd.