distribute
|dis-trib-ute|
B1
/dɪˈstrɪb.juːt/
to give out
Etymology
Etymology Information
'distribute' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'distribuere,' where 'dis-' meant 'apart' and 'tribuere' meant 'to assign.'
Historical Evolution
'distribuere' transformed into the Old French word 'distribuer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'distribute' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to assign or divide,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to give out or deliver something to a number of people.
The charity distributes food to the homeless every week.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
to spread something over an area.
The seeds were distributed evenly across the field.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35