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

When scientists exposed bowel cancer cells in the lab to blood containing these exercise-driven molecules, they observed widespread genetic changes.

From Science Daily

Other critics have warned that widespread prediction-market contracts tied to war could create harmful incentives, especially if insiders charged with carrying out military actions are tempted to enrich themselves through side bets.

From The Wall Street Journal

The UK is braced for widespread heavy snowfall and strong winds as Storm Goretti moves across the country on Thursday.

From BBC

The pub industry is warning of widespread closures when Covid-era business rate relief comes to an end in April.

From BBC

However, it’s not clear if authorities in Beijing will allow widespread purchases by Chinese customers.

From Barron's