widespreadness
|wide-spread-ness|
C1
/ˈwaɪdˌsprɛdˌnɛs/
(widespread)
extensive reach
Etymology
Etymology Information
'widespread' originates from the combination of 'wide' and 'spread', where 'wide' meant 'broad' and 'spread' meant 'to extend over a large area'.
Historical Evolution
'widespread' changed from the Old English word 'wīd' meaning 'wide' and 'sprǣdan' meaning 'to spread', eventually becoming the modern English word 'widespread'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to extend over a large area', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the state or quality of being widespread.
The widespreadness of the internet has changed how we communicate.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41