də̇ˈfyüzhən sometimes dīˈ- noun
( -s )
Etymology: Late Latin diffusion-, diffusio, from Latin diffusus + -ion-, -io -ion
1. : the action of diffusing or the state of being diffused : spreading , dispersion
the diffusion of knowledge
2. : diffuseness , prolixity
3.
a. : the process whereby particles (as molecules and ions) 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 concentration to one of lower concentration — see gaseous diffusion
b. : reflection of light by a rough reflecting surface : transmission of light through a translucent material : scattering
4. : the spread of linguistic or cultural elements from one area, tribe, or people to others through contact
the diffusion of tobacco from the New World to the Old World
5.
a. : the process of slightly scattering a portion of the image-forming light to give a pleasing artistic softness to a photograph
b. : irradiation 1c(3)
6. : a radio broadcast
• dif·fu·sion·al -zhən ə l, -zhnəl adjective