plural spreads
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.