spreading

(noun) process or result of distributing or extending over a wide expanse of space. Synonyms: spread.

(noun) the opening of a subject to widespread discussion and debate. Synonyms: dissemination, airing, public exposure.

(noun) act of extending over a wider scope or expanse of space or time. Synonyms: spread.

(verb) distribute or disperse widely. Synonyms: spread, distribute. Example: "The invaders spread their language all over the country."

(verb) become distributed or widespread. Synonyms: spread, propagate. Examples: "The infection spread." "Optimism spread among the population."

(verb) spread across or over. Synonyms: spread, overspread. Example: "A big oil spot spread across the water."

(verb) spread out or open from a closed or folded state. Synonyms: unfold, spread, spread out, open. Examples: "Open the map." "Spread your arms."

(verb) cause to become widely known. Synonyms: circulate, circularize, circularise, distribute, disseminate, propagate, broadcast, spread, diffuse, disperse, pass around. Examples: "Spread information." "Circulate a rumor." "Broadcast the news."

(verb) become widely known and passed on. Synonyms: go around, spread, circulate. Examples: "The rumor spread." "The story went around in the office."

(verb) strew or distribute over an area. Synonyms: spread, scatter, spread out. Examples: "He spread fertilizer over the lawn." "Scatter cards across the table."

(verb) move outward. Synonyms: diffuse, spread, spread out, fan out. Example: "The soldiers fanned out."

(verb) cover by spreading something over. Synonyms: spread. Example: "Spread the bread with cheese."

(verb) distribute over a surface in a layer. Synonyms: spread. Example: "Spread cheese on a piece of bread."