widespread

American  

[wahyd-spred] / ˈwaɪdˈsprɛd /

adjective

1. spread over or open, or occupying a wide space.

2. distributed over a wide region, or occurring in many places or among many persons or individuals.

   widespread poverty.

   Synonyms:

   far-flung, pervasive, extensive, far-reaching

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widespread British  

/ ˈwaɪdˌsprɛd /

adjective

1. extending over a wide area

2. accepted by or occurring among many people

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Etymology

Origin of widespread

First recorded in 1695–1705; wide + spread

Example Sentences

"Travel in, near, or below avalanche terrain is not recommended today. A widespread natural avalanche cycle is expected over the next 24 hours," the centre said.

From BBC

A widespread, sharp frost is expected by Wednesday dawn, with a yellow Met Office snow warning issued for most of Wales and parts of western and central England.

From BBC

Across Egypt, Khalil said migration has become "a widespread goal", even among educated professionals.

From Barron's

Fears of widespread disruption from artificial intelligence recently reached a tipping point, hitting stocks in industries as disparate as freight, insurance, asset management, healthcare, real estate and even biotechnology.

From MarketWatch

In big cities, vehicles were restricted and the groundwork was laid for widespread electrification.

From Barron's