permeate

/ˈpɜrmɪteɪt/

Definitions

1. verb

to pass through or spread throughout something, especially a liquid or a substance, so as to be evenly distributed

“The fragrance of the perfume permeates the entire room.”

2. verb

to be present or widespread in something, so as to be noticeable or dominant

“Fear and anxiety permeated the atmosphere at the crime scene.”

3. noun

the process or state of something passing through or spreading throughout something else

“The permeate of the polluted water was a major environmental concern.”

4. noun

a substance that has passed through or spread throughout something else

“The permeate of the coffee was a rich and aromatic flavor.”

Synonyms

  • diffuse
  • penetrate
  • percolate
  • seep
  • spread

Antonyms

  • concentrate
  • contain
  • localize