diffusion

noun

dif·​fu·​sion di-ˈfyü-zhən How to pronounce diffusion (audio)
1
: the state of being spread out or transmitted especially by contact : the action of diffusing
the diffusion of knowledge
2
3
a
chemistry : the process whereby particles of liquids, gases, or solids intermingle as the result of their spontaneous movement caused by thermal (see thermal entry 1 sense 1b) agitation and in dissolved substances move from a region of higher to one of lower concentration
b physics
(1)
: reflection of light by a rough reflecting surface
(2)
: transmission of light through a translucent material : scattering
4
: the spread of cultural elements from one area or group of people to others by contact
5
photography : the softening of sharp outlines in an image
diffusional adjective

Examples of diffusion in a Sentence

the author's tendency toward diffusion makes the novel a tedious read
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.
Similarly, Ayna used Azure OpenAI Service to train diffusion models that enable brands to generate catalog photo shoots and virtual try-on experiences in minutes, bypassing the time and cost of traditional studio setups. Gerui Wang, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025 Consider adding a carrier oil, like coconut oil, to the dish to dilute the essential oils and extend the diffusion time. Halee Miller Van Ryswyk, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Mar. 2025 Researchers also evaluated white matter in the brain using an MRI technique called diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), which measures the movement of water molecules in the brain. Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 24 Mar. 2025 And given the compute needs and size of the training data required to create a truly visually comprehensive multimodal model, the output quality of the images isn't necessarily as good as diffusion models just yet. Ars Technica, 18 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for diffusion

Word History

Etymology

Middle English diffusioun "outpouring (of speech)," borrowed from Late Latin diffūsiōn-, diffūsiō "pouring out (of liquids), watering of the eyes, abundance" (Latin, "geniality"), from Latin diffud-, variant stem of diffundere "to pour out over a wide surface, spread out, extend" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at diffuse entry 2

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of diffusion was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Diffusion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/diffusion. Accessed 5 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

diffusion

noun
dif·​fu·​sion dif-ˈyü-zhən How to pronounce diffusion (audio)
1
: a diffusing or a being diffused
2
: the mixing of particles of liquids, gases, or solids so that they move from a region of high concentration to one of lower concentration
3
: the scattering of light by reflection from a rough surface or by passage through a translucent material (as frosted glass)

Medical Definition

diffusion

noun
dif·​fu·​sion dif-ˈyü-zhən How to pronounce diffusion (audio)
1
: the process whereby particles of liquids, gases, or solids intermingle as the result of their spontaneous movement caused by thermal agitation and in dissolved substances move from a region of higher to one of lower concentration
2
a
: reflection of light by a rough reflecting surface
b
: transmission of light through a translucent material
diffusional adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on diffusion

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