propagation

noun

prop·​a·​ga·​tion ˌprä-pə-ˈgā-shən How to pronounce propagation (audio)
Synonyms of propagationnext
: 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.
Some varieties are better than others for this style of propagation, such as pothos and philodendron. — Melissa Epifano, The Spruce, 8 June 2026 Can light or gravitational waves exist without having space to travel through, and does that mean there really is some type of propagation medium, after all? — Big Think, 7 May 2026 During the first or second winter after propagation, protect the young leaves with a chicken wire enclosure, burlap, or extra mulch around the base of the plant, says Filter. — Kelly Manning, Martha Stewart, 23 June 2026 The distinction matters because once a cutting is legally classified as cannabis, commercial retailers can no longer rely on the exemption that allows propagation material to be sold. — Dario Sabaghi, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026 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

Rhymes for propagation

See All Rhymes for propagation

Browse Nearby Words

propagating pit
propagation
propagative
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Propagation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/propagation. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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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