percolate

IPA

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Dictionary definition of percolate

To filter or pass through a porous material, allowing a liquid to gradually penetrate and move through it.
"Ideas began to percolate in his mind as he read through the inspiring book."

Detailed meaning of percolate

This process involves the movement of a substance through small openings, such as the tiny holes in a coffee filter, allowing the liquid to extract and collect certain components. "Percolate" can also refer to the gradual spread or diffusion of something, such as information or ideas, through a group or community. In this sense, the concept is often used in sociology and psychology to describe how social phenomena, such as trends or cultural norms, are transmitted and adopted over time. The term "percolate" often implies a slow and steady movement or process, with the substance or information gradually making its way through the material or community.

Example sentences containing percolate

1. The coffee began to percolate in the pot, releasing its rich aroma.
2. The rainwater slowly started to percolate through the layers of soil.
3. The news of their engagement began to percolate through the community.
4. The music's infectious rhythm caused a feeling of joy to percolate through the crowd.
5. The scent of freshly baked bread began to percolate throughout the house.
6. A sense of excitement began to percolate among the team members as they prepared for the big game.

History and etymology of percolate

The verb 'percolate' has its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'percolare,' which is a combination of 'per' (through) and 'colare' (to strain or filter). In Latin, 'percolare' originally meant to strain or filter something through a porous substance. Over time, this term was adapted into English as 'percolate,' retaining its fundamental meaning of allowing a liquid to gradually penetrate and move through a porous material, often as part of a filtering or brewing process. The etymology of 'percolate' aptly conveys the concept of liquid slowly passing through a permeable medium, emphasizing the gradual and systematic nature of this filtering or infusion process.

Quiz: Find the meaning of percolate

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Further usage examples of percolate

1. The desire for change began to percolate within the hearts of the people.
2. Thoughts of gratitude and appreciation started to percolate in her mind.
3. The smell of the brewing tea began to percolate through the kitchen.
4. The feeling of anticipation began to percolate as they neared the destination.
5. The sound of laughter began to percolate through the room, creating a lively atmosphere.
6. Discussions on the topic of sustainability began to percolate within the company.
7. The aroma of spices began to percolate from the simmering pot of curry.
8. The excitement for the upcoming concert started to percolate among the fans.
9. Feelings of nostalgia began to percolate as she looked through old photographs.
10. The news of their promotion began to percolate through the office, spreading happiness.
11. The sense of camaraderie began to percolate among the group of strangers as they shared stories.
12. The scent of fresh flowers began to percolate in the room, filling it with a delightful fragrance.
13. A sense of calmness began to percolate in her mind as she practiced deep breathing.
14. The coffee begins to percolate, filling the kitchen with its rich aroma.
15. Rainwater can percolate through the soil, replenishing underground aquifers.
16. Ideas percolate in my mind before I finally find the perfect solution.
17. The news of their engagement started to percolate through the family.
18. It takes time for information to percolate throughout the organization.
19. The flavors of the stew slowly percolate as it simmers on the stove.
20. Discussions about the project's future began to percolate among the team members.
21. Raindrops percolate down through the leaves, nourishing the forest floor.
22. The excitement of the upcoming vacation started to percolate among the kids.
23. The aroma of freshly baked bread began to percolate from the bakery.
24. As the water heats up, it will percolate through the ground coffee, brewing a perfect cup.