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

Pandas International is an organization specifically focused on the preservation and propagation of the giant panda, supporting breeding centers and research in China. —Kelly Bowman, CNN, 20 Sep. 2024

But Tehran has its own problems with Saudi and Emirati policies—such as the funding and arming of militias, the Saudi propagation of Wahhabism, and the extensive purchases of American weaponry by the Saudis and the Emiratis, as well as the Israelis. —Trita Parsi, Foreign Affairs, 23 Feb. 2021

Furthermore, Atoll Estates has carefully selected eco-friendly construction materials and has implemented a coral relocation and propagation program. —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 15 July 2024

The destination features its Butterfly Garden with a variety of plants, Dinosaur Garden of ferns and conifers and the Endangered Species Garden devoted to the propagation and preservation of endangered plants. —Grace Tucker, The Enquirer, 15 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

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