verb

1. To stretch out, open out (a material etc.) so that it more fully covers a given area of space.

   “He spread his newspaper on the table.”

2. To extend (individual rays, limbs etc.); to stretch out in varying or opposing directions.

   “I spread my arms wide and welcomed him home.”

3. To disperse, to scatter or distribute over a given area.

   “I spread the rice grains evenly over the floor.”

Synonyms: circulate, diffuse, disseminate, propagate, put about

noun

1. The act by which something is spread.