Permeate is a verb that describes the action of something — often a substance, feeling, or influence — spreading through or penetrating every part of something else.
Definition
Permeate (verb):
To pass through or spread across the entirety of something; to saturate or influence deeply.
- “The aroma of fresh coffee permeated the kitchen.”
- “A sense of dread permeated the room.”
Synonyms
- Infuse
- Saturate
- Pervade
- Penetrate
- Imbue
Antonyms
- Contain
- Block
- Resist
- Exclude
Examples in Sentences
- “Water permeated the soil after the heavy rain.”
- “The artist’s joy permeates every brushstroke of the painting.”
- “Corruption seemed to permeate every level of the organization.”
Usage Tips
- Often used with intangible things (like emotions, smells, or ideas)
- Suggests a thorough and complete spread
- Can be used literally (with liquids, gases, etc.) or figuratively (with emotions, influence, etc.)