propagates

Propagates is the third-person singular present tense of the verb propagate. It describes the act of causing to multiply, spread, or transmit, or of something spreading or extending through space or time. In everyday use, it can refer to the spread of physical things, ideas, or effects.

In biology and horticulture, propagate means to reproduce or generate new individuals, often by methods such as seeds, cuttings, or grafting. Plants, microorganisms, and other organisms may propagate to increase the population or to spread desirable traits.

In physics and engineering, a signal, wave, or disturbance propagates through a medium or space. Propagation describes how such phenomena move from one location to another, typically with a speed and pattern determined by the properties of the medium.

In information science and social contexts, ideas, rumors, or trends propagate as they spread from person to person or through networks. This usage highlights dissemination and reach rather than physical movement.

In computing and programming, events or data can propagate through a system following defined paths or rules. Propagation can be affected by architecture, protocols, or error-handling mechanisms, and may involve filtering, amplification, or suppression depending on the design.

Etymology and related terms: propagate comes from Latin propagare, from pro- 'forth' + agere 'to drive, lead'. The noun propagation shares the same root and describes the act or process of spreading. Propagates is commonly used in many disciplines to denote an ongoing spreading action.