spread (A2)

verb

Pronunciation: /sprɛd/

Definition

To move over a surface or area, or to make something do this.

Examples

• The news of the accident spread quickly.

• She spread the butter on her toast.

• The virus can spread from person to person.

How to Use spread

spread out (phrasal verb)

To extend over a large area. — "The village spread out along the river."

spread across (prepositional phrase)

To extend over a wide area. — "The desert spreads across the continent."

spread through (prepositional phrase)

To move or be passed through a place or group. — "The smell spread through the building."

spread on (prepositional phrase)

To put a soft food onto a surface like bread. — "He spread jam on his toast."

Synonyms of spread

Words with a similar meaning to spread:

• extend
• distribute
• disseminate

Antonyms of spread

Words with the opposite meaning to spread:

• gather
• collect
• concentrate

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