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verb Uncommon

propagate

PRO-puh-gayt

Propagate (verb) means to spread or pass something on, such as information, a belief, or a disease. Example: “Rumors propagate quickly on social media.”

verb
1
To spread or pass something on, such as information, a belief, or a disease.
"Rumors propagate quickly on social media."
2
To breed plants or animals, or cause them to reproduce.
"Gardeners often propagate roses by taking cuttings."
3
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

Word forms

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

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Rumors _____ quickly on social media.

Etymology

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

Origin: Latin · First attested 1535

Class of 1535 propagate joined the language around 1535.
See the full Class of 1535 →

Related words

Rhymes for propagate

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Frequently asked questions

What does “propagate” mean?

The word “propagate” means to spread or pass something on, such as information, a belief, or a disease. In plain terms, to spread, multiply, or pass something along — whether it's plants, ideas, or waves.

How do you pronounce “propagate”?

“Propagate” is pronounced PRO-puh-gayt (/ˈpɹɑpəˌɡeɪt/ in IPA).

How do you use “propagate” in a sentence?

Here is “propagate” used in a sentence: “Rumors propagate quickly on social media.”

What part of speech is “propagate”?

“Propagate” is a verb.

Where does the word “propagate” come from?

The word “propagate” dates back to around 1535 and comes from Latin. First recorded in 1535, from Latin prōpāgātus, past participle of prōpāgāre.

Is “propagate” a common word?

“Propagate” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “propagate” have?

“Propagate” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to spread or pass something on, such as information, a belief, or a disease.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial