Langimage
English

propagate

|prop/a/gate|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈprɑː.pəˌɡeɪt/

🇬🇧

/ˈprɒp.ə.ɡeɪt/

spread widely

Etymology
Etymology Information

'propagate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'propagare,' where 'pro-' meant 'forth' and 'pagare' meant 'to fasten.'

Historical Evolution

'propagare' transformed into the French word 'propager,' and eventually became the modern English word 'propagate' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to fasten or attach,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to spread or promote widely.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to spread and promote (an idea, theory, etc.) widely.

The organization aims to propagate its beliefs across the country.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to breed specimens of (a plant, animal, etc.) by natural processes from the parent stock.

Farmers often propagate plants by taking cuttings.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40