distributed; distributing
Definition of distribute
1
: to divide among several or many : apportion
distribute expenses distributes toys to needy children
2a
: to spread out so as to cover something : scatter
evenly distribute the seeds
b
: to give out or deliver especially to members of a group
distribute newspapers distribute leaflets distribute a TV show to local stations
c
: to place or position so as to be properly apportioned over or throughout an area
200 pounds distributed on a 6-foot frame distribute the frosting around the top and sides of the cake
d
logic
: to use (a term) so as to convey information about every member of the class named
The proposition "all men are mortal" distributes "man" but not "mortal."
3a
: to divide or separate especially into kinds
distributing specimens into their proper classes
b
: to return the units of (something, such as typeset matter) to storage
4
mathematics
: to use in or as an operation so as to be mathematically distributive (see distributive sense 3a)
Addition is not distributed over multiplication.
mathematics
: to be mathematically distributive
multiplication distributes over addition
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for distribute
The first known use of distribute was in the 15th century
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