propagation

Everyday

1. (science) Propagation is growing new plants from a parent plant, from seeds, cuttings or bulbs. tree →
2. (science) Propagation is the spreading of something, such as sound, light or waves, from one place to another. tree →
3. (formal) Propagation is spreading ideas or beliefs. tree →

In the lessons

In science and gardening lessons pupils propagate plants from cuttings. In physics lessons: sound propagation through air, water and solids. In formal language it is about spreading news or ideas. Phrases: «plant propagation», «propagation of sound».

Examples

• Plant propagation from cuttings is easy with mint. tree →
• Sound propagation is faster in water than in air. tree →
• We studied the propagation of light. tree →
• The gardener showed us propagation by seeds. tree →
• The propagation of rumours can hurt people. tree →
• Strawberries spread by natural propagation through runners. tree →
• Propagation needs warmth and water. tree →
• Waves show propagation of energy. tree →

Note

Formal or scientific word. Verb: propagate. In science: sound travels about 340 metres per second in air, faster in water and faster still in steel.