English Dictionary

Definition of “proliferation

proliferation (prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃənPronunciation for proliferation

Definitions

noun

  1. rapid growth or reproduction of new parts, cells, etc
  2. rapid growth or increase in numbers
  3. a great number  ⇒ done up in a proliferation of fancy frills 

Usage examples

  • At the moment a Member of Parliament, the shadow spokesman on defence, was talking about proliferation.
    Brandon, Ruth, Left, Right and Centre (1986)
  • It tends to occur within three months of the procedure and is due to proliferation of smooth muscle as a reaction to vessel injury.
    British Medical Journal (2002)
  • The proliferation of free-trade agreements, for example, means we see an increase in business.
    Globe and Mail (2003)
  • But he added: "We must recognise the growing challenge of missile proliferation.
    Sun, News of the World (2001)
  • The effect of these hormones on cell proliferation rates was equally clear.
    Dr. John R. Lee, Dr. David Zava and Virginia Hopkins, WHAT YOUR DOCTOR MAY NOT TELL YOU ABOUT BREAST CANCER: How hormone balance may save your life

Browse dictionary