spread - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
spread Word Meanings
- to extend something over a surface
- to distribute something widely
- to open or unfold something
spread Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
spread Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/sprɛd/
US
/sprɛd/
spread Word Etymology
spread = spread (root). Historical origin: Old English 'sprǣdan' → Middle English 'spreden' → Modern English. Memory image: Picture a warm blanket being unfolded and laid out over a cold surface, symbolizing the act of spreading warmth.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I set a cloth on the table and push it flat with my hand. I smooth and pull, watching it cover more surface as I adjust and hold it in place. The spread of the cloth feels like a small rehearsal of how ideas travel—one action widening into more reach. When I place the bowl, the space feels open, and the rhythm of spreading stays with me as a quiet habit.
Real Context
Spread as a verb covers several common uses: to extend something over a surface, to distribute something more widely, and to open or unfold something. When you spread butter, you are applying it smoothly over bread; when you spread a rumor, you are making it reach more people, often beyond its original source; and when you spread a map or a blanket, you are placing it so that it lies flat and covers the intended area. The word also appears in phrases like spread out, spread thin, and spread across the country, each adding nuance about reach, coverage, or effort. Learners should note the differences in transitive, intransitive, and separable usage.
Usage Reminders
- - Spread can be transitive or intransitive, so check whether you need an object.
- - Distinguish spreading on a surface (spread butter) from spreading over a region (spread across the country).
- - Note that the past tense is spread (no -ed).
- - Learn phrasal verbs like spread out and spread across; they add nuance.
- - When a more precise meaning is needed, choose verbs like extend, distribute, or diffuse.
Common Misconceptions
- Spreading always means covering a surface physically.
- Spread only applies to rumors, not objects.
- Past tense of spread is spred.
- Spread is never used with intransitive constructions.
- Spread and extend have the same meaning in all contexts.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Learn 6 common collocations with spread (butter, rumors, map, across, out, thin).
- Practice both transitive and intransitive uses with varied objects.
- Note differences in meaning when spread is followed by prepositions like across or over.
- Use a dictionary to check phrasal verbs and fixed phrases.
- Compare spread with extend, distribute, and diffuse to pick the precise sense.
- Create your own sentences to solidify contexts.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'spread'?
A.Extend
B.Jump
C.Laugh
D.Sing
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'spread' correctly?
A.She spread the news on social media.
B.He spread the bread with butter.
C.The cat spread its wings and flew.
D.They spread their homework in the park.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'spread'?
A.Distribute
B.Hide
C.Destroy
D.Carry
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'spread'?
A.Close
B.Gather
C.Talk
D.Read
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario of 'spread'?
A.She wrote a letter to her friend.
B.The dog played fetch in the park.
C.The virus spread rapidly in the community.
D.He painted a beautiful landscape.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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