Recurring crossword clue · multiple possible answers

Diffuse crossword clue

Editorially reviewed August 20, 2026

Best starting answer

Start with SPREAD for a six-letter general verb. Use the crossings to distinguish physical spreading from gradual absorption, emission, or the adjective sense meaning wordy.

Diffuse answers by length

The correct fill depends on the number of squares, crossing letters, and the sense intended by the setter.

4 letters

SEEPPass or spread gradually through small openings.

SHEDEmit or diffuse light, heat, or another output.

5 letters

IMBUEFill or permeate something with a quality or feeling.

EXUDEGive off or emit gradually.

STREWScatter or spread things over an area.

6 letters

SPREADExtend, distribute, or become dispersed over an area.

OSMOSEDiffuse gradually, especially through a membrane.

PROLIXDiffuse in expression; excessively wordy.

7 letters

PERVADESpread through and be present throughout something.

RADIATEEmit or spread outward from a central point.

SCATTERDisperse in different directions.

8 letters

PERMEATEDiffuse through or spread throughout a substance or place.

DISPERSEDiffuse by scattering over a wide area.

11 letters

DISSEMINATESpread information, ideas, or material widely.

Meanings to check

Spread, scatter, or distribute something over an area.
Pass gradually through a material, opening, or membrane.
Emit light, heat, liquid, or another output.
Permeate a place or fill something with a quality.
Wordy or not concise, in the adjective sense.