Pronunciation: [dˈɪfluːəns] (IPA) 
Diffluence is a word that refers to the state of being scattered or spread out. Its pronunciation is as follows: /dɪˈflʊəns/. In this word, the "d" is pronounced with the tongue tapping against the teeth, the "i" is pronounced like the "i" in "bit," the "f" is pronounced like the "f" in "father," the "l" is pronounced by touching the roof of the mouth with the tip of the tongue, and the "u" is pronounced like the "u" in "put."
Diffluence refers to the act or process of diverging, scattering, or flowing in different directions. It is derived from the Latin word "diffō," which means "to spread out" or "to scatter." Diffluence is often used to describe the movement or dispersion of fluid substances, such as water or air, as they branch out or disperse from a central point.
In the field of geography, diffluence is employed to explain the branching or splitting of a river or stream into multiple channels. This phenomenon commonly occurs in river deltas or alluvial plains, where the main watercourse divides into several smaller channels, forming intricate patterns. The process of diffluence is influenced by various factors, including the topography of the land, sediment deposition, and the flow rate of the water.
Diffluence can also be used in a metaphorical sense to describe the divergence or dispersion of ideas, opinions, or thoughts. It represents the spreading out or divergence of a concept or belief into different directions or interpretations. This concept is particularly relevant in discussions surrounding diverse perspectives, the exchange of ideas, or the emergence of multiple viewpoints within a discourse or society.
Overall, diffluence denotes the act of scattering or diverging, whether it be in the physical sense of fluid flow or the metaphorical sense of ideas or opinions dispersing in different directions.
Deliquescence, becoming fluid.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "diffluence" has its roots in the Latin language. It comes from the Latin verb "diffluere", which is a combination of the prefix "dis-" meaning "apart" or "away" and the verb "fluere" meaning "to flow". In Latin, "diffluere" referred to the act of flowing apart or diverging.
The word "diffluence" originally appeared in English in the mid-17th century, imported directly from Latin. It is used to describe the action or process of diverging or spreading out, typically in reference to flowing substances like water.
