Definition & Meaning of "spread like wildfire"in English

to spread like wildfire

PHRASE

(of news, information, or rumors) to quickly become known by the majority

to [spread] like wildfire definition and meaning

Idiom

Informal

What is the origin of the idiom "spread like wildfire" and when to use it?

The idiom "spread like wildfire" likely originated from observations of how wildfires rapidly and uncontrollably expand and consume large areas of land. This expression is used to highlight the speed and wide reach of the spread of something, particularly rumors or news, much like how a wildfire can quickly engulf an entire area.

Examples

The rumor spread like wildfire before anyone could deny it.

(of a disease or infection) to quickly pass from one person to another