spread
UK: /spred/ | US: /spred/
v. to extend over a large or increasing area
v. to distribute or disperse widely
n. the act or process of spreading
n. a soft food applied to bread (e.g., butter, jam)
The word "spread" originates from Old English sprǣdan, meaning "to stretch, extend, or scatter." It is a Germanic root with no further divisible morphemes in modern English. The core idea of expansion or dispersal has remained consistent, evolving to include abstract uses (e.g., spreading information) and concrete ones (e.g., spreading butter).
She spread the map on the table to plan their route.
The fire spread quickly through the dry forest.
He spread rumors about his coworker.
This cheese spread tastes delicious on crackers.
The bird spread its wings and flew away.