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distributed
/dɪˈstrɪbjuːtɪd/
spread out or divided
The company uses a distributed network of servers to handle user requests.
The company's workload is spread across multiple servers to improve efficiency.
general
spread out over a wide area or among many people
The virus is distributed through respiratory droplets.
The virus spreads when people breathe in tiny particles from an infected person.
The funds will be distributed equally among the beneficiaries.
Each person named in the will will receive an equal share of the money.
Often used in technical contexts (e.g., 'distributed computing') to describe systems where tasks are handled by multiple machines.
Business
formal
administered or given out in portions
Dividends were distributed to shareholders last month.
Shareholders received their portion of the company's profits.
Common in finance and legal documents to describe the allocation of resources.
Collocations
distributed systema network where components are located on different computers that communicate via messagesdistributed evenlydivided fairly without biasdistributed loadworkload spread across multiple servers or workers
Pro Tip
Distinguish from 'distributive'
'Distributed' describes the physical or logical separation of something, while 'distributive' refers to the act of giving out or sharing (e.g., 'distributive property' in math).
Gold Rule
Use 'distributed' for systems or allocations
Apply 'distributed' to describe how something is spread out (e.g., 'distributed network') or divided (e.g., 'distributed profits'). Avoid using it to describe emotions or abstract concepts.
Word Origin
From Latin *distributus*, past participle of *distribuere* (to divide, distribute), from *dis-* (apart) + *tribuere* (to assign).
Usage Notes
As an adjective, 'distributed' often describes systems, resources, or processes that are spread out rather than localized. In computing, it specifically refers to systems where tasks are handled by multiple machines working together.
Word Breakdown
dis-
apart, away
prefix-tribuere
to assign
root-ed
past participle suffix
suffixEnglish Dictionary