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June 16, 2020 Word of the Day

spread /ˈsprɛd/ noun
spread
/ˈsprɛd/
noun

plural spreads

A cracker with a cheese spread on top
A cracker with a cheese spread on top
Definition of SPREAD

1 [noncount] : growth or increase that causes something to cover a larger area, affect a larger number of people, etc. — often + of

  • We need to slow the spread of the disease/virus.

  • the spread of infection

  • the spread of new technology

2 : a soft food that is spread on bread, crackers, etc.

   [count]
  • She offered crackers and a cheese spread.

   [noncount]
  • He uses low-fat spread on his toast.

3[count] : the total distance between the two outer edges of something — usually singular — often + of

  • the spread of a bird's wings

  • The plant has a spread of three feet.

4 [count] informal : a large meal — usually singular

  • We always have a huge spread for Thanksgiving.

5 [count] : something (such as an advertisement or a series of photos) that covers two or more pages in a newspaper or magazine

  • a two-page spread

6 [count] US : bedspread

7 [count] US : a large farm or ranch — usually singular

  • He bought a spread of 100 acres.

  • They have quite a spread.

8 [count] : a variety or range of things or people — usually singular — often + of

  • The poll showed a large spread of opinions.

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