promulgate

[ prom-uhl-geyt ]

verb (used with object)

, prom·ul·gat·ed, prom·ul·gat·ing.

1. to make known by open declaration; publish; proclaim formally or put into operation (a law, decree of a court, etc.).

   Synonyms: declare, issue, announce

2. to set forth or teach publicly (a creed, doctrine, etc.).

   Synonyms: advocate

promulgate

/ ˈprɒməlˌɡeɪt /

verb

1. to put into effect (a law, decree, etc), esp by formal proclamation
2. to announce or declare officially
3. to make widespread

Derived Forms

• ˈpromulˌgator, noun
• ˌpromulˈgation, noun

Other Words From

• prom·ul·ga·tion [prom-, uh, l-, gey, -sh, uh, n], noun
• prom·ul·ga·tor noun
• re·prom·ul·gate verb (used with object) repromulgated repromulgating

Word History and Origins

Origin of promulgate¹

First recorded in 1520–30; from Latin prōmulgātus, past participle of prōmulgāre “to make known, promulgate”; promulge, -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of promulgate¹

C16: from Latin prōmulgāre to bring to public knowledge; probably related to provulgāre to publicize, from pro- ¹+ vulgāre to make common, from vulgus the common people

Example Sentences

But Davis pointed out that the regulations were promulgated months ago – and she said it’s unlikely that the Department of Education would have started to immediately scrutinize schools..

From Salon

The poem attempts to reclaim words such as “freedom,” “liberty” and “patriot,” part of a vision of pluralism and empathy, instead of the “America first” message promulgated by former President Trump.

From Los Angeles Times

Trump openly denies that global heating is caused by human activity, and the policies promulgated by his administration's alumni through Project 2025 would almost entirely eliminate the already-weak environmental protections.

From Salon

The “truth” they promulgated was that Kerry was a fraud who lied about his service.

From Los Angeles Times

But Chambers hasn’t given up his opposition — and his agreement to liquidate his stake in Cox has given him more resources than ever to promulgate it.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• declare
• notify
• promote
• publish