propagation

noun

prop·​a·​ga·​tion ˌprä-pə-ˈgā-shən 

: the act or action of propagating: such as

a

: increase (as of a kind of organism) in numbers

b

: the spreading of something (such as a belief) abroad or into new regions

c

: enlargement or extension (as of a crack) in a solid body

Examples of propagation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Maxwell used his math to describe the propagation of electromagnetic waves which travel at the same speed as light, Vaudo notes. —Bruce Dorminey, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025

Any leaves intended for propagation should be peeled (not cut) from the plant. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Apr. 2025

Learn about the botany, seed propagation and division propagation of bulbs as well as the culture and care of bulbs in containers and the ground. —Jeanette Marantos, Los Angeles Times, 1 Apr. 2025

Fads and fashion be darned; the principles that dictate the propagation of sound waves have existed since the beginning of creation. —Robert Ross, Robb Report, 26 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for propagation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

propagation

noun

prop·​a·​ga·​tion ˌpräp-ə-ˈgā-shən 

: the act or process of propagating: as

a

: multiplication (as of a kind of living thing) in number of individuals

b

: the spreading of something (as a belief) abroad or into new regions

Medical Definition

propagation

noun

prop·​a·​ga·​tion ˌpräp-ə-ˈgā-shən 

: the act or action of propagating: as

a

: increase (as of a kind of organism) in numbers

propagation of a pure culture of bacteria

b

: the spreading or transmission of something

propagation of a nerve impulse