widespread

[wahyd-spred]

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

widespread

/ ˈwaɪdˌsprɛd /

adjective

1. extending over a wide area

2. accepted by or occurring among many people

Word History and Origins

Origin of widespread¹

First recorded in 1695–1705; wide + spread

Example Sentences

But the report also heard widespread agreement that current levels of funding for culture in Scotland "did not match the ambition" of the sector.

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There is widespread evidence that employers taken some or all of such steps in the last year, following previous hikes and tax rises.

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If this mechanism is widespread, it could help explain how microbial life persists in deep and isolated environments.

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The analysts said the combination of relative personal financial strength with widespread concern about the path of the economy will push consumers to keep spending but be more price-conscious, boosting off-price retailers.

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There is a widespread sense of resignation and a feeling that things can only get worse.

Read more on Los Angeles Times