pervades

Pervades is a verb meaning to spread through and be present in every part of something, often creating a pervasive effect or atmosphere. It is usually used to describe intangible qualities such as feelings, odors, ideas, or conditions that seem to fill or saturate a space.

Etymology: The word derives from Latin pervadere, from per- through and vadere to go. The term entered English in early modern usage and is now common in both formal and informal contexts.

Usage: Pervade can be transitive, as in "A sense of dread pervades the novel," or intransitive when referring to an atmosphere that fills a place: "A feeling of sadness pervades the room." It is commonly followed by through, throughout, or among: "Corruption pervades throughout the organization." The related adjective pervasive describes something that has the quality of pervading widely.

Examples: "A light fragrance pervades the air after rain." "The historical narrative pervades the museum exhibit."

Notes: While often neutral, the word frequently carries a judgment about the extent or pervasiveness of something, sometimes implying it is hard to escape. In usage guidance, some writers prefer avoid phrases like pervades through in favor of pervades or permeates directly.

See also: Permeate, Saturate, Pervasive, Pervasion.