11/07/2021
(transitive) To stretch out, open out (a material etc.) so that it more fully covers a given area of space. [from 13th c.]
He spread his newspaper on the table.
(transitive) To extend (individual rays, limbs etc.); to stretch out in varying or opposing directions. [from 13th c.]
I spread my arms wide and welcomed him home.
(transitive) To disperse, to scatter or distribute over a given area. [from 13th c.]
I spread the rice grains evenly over the floor.
(intransitive) To proliferate; to become more widely present, to be disseminated. [from 13th c.]
(transitive) To disseminate; to cause to proliferate, to make (something) widely known or present. [from 14th c.]
The missionaries quickly spread their new message across the country.
(intransitive) To take up a larger area or space; to expand, be extended. [from 14th c.]
I dropped my glass; the water spread quickly over the tiled floor.
(transitive) To smear, to distribute in a thin layer. [from 16th c.]
She liked to spread butter on her toast while it was still hot.
(transitive) To cover (something) with a thin layer of some substance, as of butter. [from 16th c.]
He always spreads his toast with peanut butter and strawberry jam.
To prepare; to set and furnish with provisions.
to spread a table
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(intransitive, slang) To open one’s legs, especially for sexual favours.
