diffuse
word
Definition
To spread something over a wide area or among many people. Can be used for physical things like light or smells, or for ideas and information.
Usage & Nuances
Often used in formal, scientific, or technical contexts. Common with 'light', 'smell', 'ideas'. As an adjective ('diffuse'), it means 'spread out' or 'not concentrated'; as a verb, it means 'to spread'. Don't confuse with 'defuse' (to make safe).
Example Sentences
It takes time for warmth to diffuse throughout a big house.
natural
The sunlight diffuses through the clouds.
basic
The smell of flowers quickly diffused in the room.
basic
New ideas can diffuse quickly on the internet.
basic
His explanation was so diffuse that nobody understood his main point.
natural
These days, news can diffuse across the world in seconds.
natural