verb

propagate

PRO-puh-gayt

verb

To spread or pass something on, such as information, a belief, or a disease.

"Rumors propagate quickly on social media."

To breed plants or animals, or cause them to reproduce.

"Gardeners often propagate roses by taking cuttings."

Of a wave or signal, to travel or spread through a medium.

"Sound waves propagate more slowly through air than through water."

How to Use Propagate

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo spread, multiply, or pass something along — whether it's plants, ideas, or waves.

Common pairings

propagate a plant propagate a rumor propagate a signal

more propagate comparative, propagated past tense, propagates singular, most propagate superlative

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Rumors _____ quickly on social media.

First recorded in 1535, from Latin prōpāgātus, past participle of prōpāgāre.

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