Propagate
/ˈprɒp.ə.ɡeɪt/noun
To reproduce, multiply, or spread something, especially an idea, organism, or signal.
Did you know?The modern word “propaganda” comes from the Vatican’s 1622 Congregation for the Propagation of the Faith, created to spread Catholic doctrine worldwide.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*pag-
“To fasten, fix, or join; a proposed deep root behind several Latin formations”
Classical Latin
Latin
propagare
“To set out plant cuttings or shoots; to extend or spread”
Classical Latin
Latin
propago
“A shoot, layer, or branch used for growing a new plant”
Late Latin
Latin
propagatio
“Propagation; the spreading or extension of something”
15th Century
English
propagate
“To spread or promote an idea, doctrine, or belief”
17th Century
English
propagate
“To reproduce plants, animals, or people; to multiply”
Modern English
English
propagate
“To reproduce or spread through space, systems, organisms, or communication”