diffusion
diffusion Lexical Profile
diffusion Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The spreading of something, such as ideas, culture, technology, or light, more widely over a large area or among a large number of people.
"The rapid diffusion of printing technology across Renaissance Europe transformed education and literacy."
In physics, chemistry, and biology, the net movement and intermingling of molecules, atoms, or ions from a region of higher concentration to a region of lower concentration as a result of random thermal motion.
"Oxygen enters the bloodstream from the lungs through the process of passive diffusion across cell membranes."
The quality of being wordy, rambling, or lacking conciseness in speech or writing.
"The editor cut several pages from the manuscript to correct its stylistic diffusion and sharpen the central argument."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'diffusion' (the spreading out of particles, light, or ideas) with 'defusion' (the removal of a fuse or the reduction of tension in a dangerous situation).
• Rhymes for diffusion
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 14th century from Latin diffusionem, a noun of action from the past participle stem of diffundere ('to pour out or scatter'), formed from dis- ('apart') and fundere ('to pour').