propagation

noun

prop·​a·​ga·​tion ˌprä-pə-ˈgā-shən How to pronounce propagation (audio)
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Gerbera daisies have a clumping growth habit and may be divided at the roots, as long as separated clumps each have a least one crown, for propagation purposes. Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 11 Oct. 2025 There will be speakers on plant identification, plant and garden accessories for sale, pruning, propagation and plant care tips. Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Oct. 2025 Perhaps writing badly is a form of propagation. Literary Hub, 10 Oct. 2025 It is aimed at OEM battery systems to help delay fire propagation during rare but dangerous thermal runaway events. Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 7 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for propagation

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of propagation was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Propagation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/propagation. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

propagation

noun
prop·​a·​ga·​tion ˌpräp-ə-ˈgā-shən How to pronounce propagation (audio)
: 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 How to pronounce propagation (audio)
: 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
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