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proliferate

verb

/prəˈlɪfəreɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of proliferate

To rapidly increase in number, often referring to the expansion or spread of something, such as ideas, organisms, or objects.
"Technology advancements continue to proliferate at an astonishing pace."

Detailed meaning of proliferate

When something 'proliferates,' it signifies a significant and sometimes uncontrolled growth or reproduction. This term conveys the idea of abundance and the quick and widespread propagation of the subject in question. 'Proliferation' can occur in various contexts, from the proliferation of technology and information in the digital age to the proliferation of species in a habitat. It underscores the notion of exponential growth and highlights the potential for something to multiply rapidly under certain conditions. Proliferation is often associated with both positive and negative consequences, depending on the context in which it occurs.

Example sentences containing proliferate

1. Ideas proliferate when shared openly and enthusiastically.
2. Opportunities for growth and development proliferate in a dynamic environment.
3. With the advent of social media, rumors can proliferate quickly.
4. The internet has allowed information to proliferate globally.
5. New businesses proliferate in thriving economies.
6. Wildlife populations can proliferate when conservation efforts are successful.

History and etymology of proliferate

The verb 'proliferate' finds its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'proliferare,' which is a combination of 'proles,' meaning 'offspring' or 'descendants,' and 'ferre,' meaning 'to bear' or 'to carry.' In Latin, 'proliferare' originally referred to the act of bearing or producing offspring or descendants, emphasizing the idea of reproduction and growth. Over time, 'proliferate' entered the English language to describe the rapid increase in number or the expansion and spread of something, whether it be ideas, organisms, or objects. It conveys the sense of something reproducing and spreading prolifically, highlighting the concept of rapid and extensive growth. 'Proliferate' reflects its Latin origins in the notion of bearing and carrying forth, but it has been extended to encompass various contexts of expansion and increase.

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Further usage examples of proliferate

1. As knowledge spreads, innovations proliferate across industries.
2. In times of crisis, rumors and misinformation can proliferate.
3. Fast food chains seem to proliferate in every city.
4. Bacteria can proliferate rapidly in warm and moist conditions.
5. Ideas and trends can proliferate through viral marketing.
6. Invasive species can proliferate and disrupt ecosystems.
7. Online scams and fraudulent schemes continue to proliferate.
8. Rapid urbanization has caused slums to proliferate in some regions.
9. When left unchecked, weeds can proliferate and choke out native plants.
10. In the digital age, fake news can proliferate and mislead the public.
11. The availability of affordable housing can help families proliferate.
12. When conditions are favorable, viruses can proliferate within a host.
13. Social media platforms allow memes and viral content to proliferate.
14. Social media platforms continue to proliferate, connecting people worldwide.
15. Invasive species can proliferate rapidly and harm native ecosystems.
16. The internet has allowed information to proliferate at an unprecedented rate.
17. As online shopping grows, e-commerce businesses proliferate.
18. Urban development has caused skyscrapers to proliferate in the city.
19. Misinformation can proliferate on the internet, causing confusion.
20. Under certain conditions, bacteria can proliferate exponentially.
21. Advocacy efforts aim to help charities proliferate their impact.
22. As digital technology advances, smart devices proliferate in homes.
23. The virus can proliferate if not properly contained.
24. Educational opportunities need to proliferate for underserved communities.