occurring or existing in many places or among many people
example
The widespread use of smartphones has transformed how people communicate and access information.
synonyms
ubiquitousprevalentpervasive
word origin — The word 'widespread' is a combination of 'wide', derived from Old English 'wīd', meaning 'broad, extensive', and 'spread', from the Old English 'sprǣdan', meaning 'to extend, to spread out'.
widespread, informal, selective, cosmetic, luxurious: meanings and examples
Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 287. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.
widespread · adjective/ˈwaɪdˌsprɛd/
occurring or existing in many places or among many people
The widespread use of smartphones has transformed how people communicate and access information.
Synonyms: ubiquitous, prevalent, pervasive
Origin: The word 'widespread' is a combination of 'wide', derived from Old English 'wīd', meaning 'broad, extensive', and 'spread', from the Old English 'sprǣdan', meaning 'to extend, to spread out'.
informal · adjective/ɪnˈfɔrməl/
having a relaxed, friendly, or unofficial style or manner
The meeting had an informal atmosphere, allowing everyone to share their ideas freely.
Synonyms: casual, relaxed, unofficial
Origin: The word 'informal' originated in the early 19th century, derived from the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'formal', which comes from the Latin 'formalis', meaning 'of form, conventional'.
selective · adjective/səˈlɛk.tɪv/
chosen or acting with careful consideration of what is included or excluded
She has a selective taste in music, only listening to genres that resonate with her personal experiences.
Synonyms: discriminating, particular, choosy
Origin: from Latin 'selectivus', from 'selectus', the past participle of 'seligere' meaning 'to choose'
cosmetic · adjective/kɑzˈmɛtɪk/
relating to beauty or appearance
She applied a cosmetic product that promised to enhance her natural beauty, leaving her skin glowing.
Synonyms: aesthetic, beautifying, decorative
Origin: from French 'cosmétique', from Greek 'kosmētikos', meaning 'skilled in adornment' or 'given to adornment'
luxurious · adjective/lʌɡˈʒʊriəs/
characterized by elegance and sumptuousness often to the point of extravagance
The hotel featured luxurious accommodations that provided guests with breathtaking views and top-notch amenities.
Synonyms: opulent, lavish, sumptuous
Origin: from Latin 'luxuriosus', from 'luxuria' meaning 'luxury, extravagance'