The phrase "passing around" is spelled with two syllables: /ˈpæs.ɪŋ/ and /əˈraʊnd/. The first syllable is pronounced with the short "a" sound as in "cat" followed by the consonant cluster "ss" and the "ih" sound as in "bit". The second syllable is pronounced with the short "u" sound as in "cup" followed by the "r" sound and the diphthong "ow" as in "cow". The phrase means to distribute or circulate something among a group of people or in a specific area.
Passing around refers to the act of circulating or distributing something among a group of people, typically within a social context. It involves the transfer or sharing of an object, idea, information, or even a behavior from one person to another, with the intention of reaching a wider audience or engaging multiple individuals.
In a literal sense, passing around could involve physically moving an item, such as a book, document, or a plate of food, among a group of people. This action often occurs in situations like meetings, gatherings, or parties, where individuals take turns or share a shared resource. It can also involve the passing of an object for inspection, discussion, or demonstration purposes.
The term can also have metaphorical or abstract connotations. For example, passing around can refer to the exchange of information, opinions, news, or gossip among a network or community of people, either verbally or through written means. In this context, it suggests the dissemination or sharing of knowledge, perspectives, or rumors.
Furthermore, passing around can describe the spread or transmission of a particular behavior, habit, or belief within a group or society. It signifies the adoption or replication of a practice by multiple individuals, often resulting in its integration into a collective behavior pattern.
Overall, passing around implies the act of circulating or sharing something, whether tangible or intangible, among a group of people, with the aim of involving or informing a broader audience and fostering interaction or engagement.
The phrase "passing around" is a combination of the verb "pass" and the preposition "around".
The word "pass" comes from the Old French word "passer", meaning "to go by, overtake, pass", which in turn derived from the Latin word "passare" meaning "to step, pass". It has been used in English since the 13th century with various meanings related to movement, transfer, or change of possession.
The preposition "around" comes from the Middle English word "arounde", which can be traced back to the Old English word "on rūnan" meaning "to run, to flow". It implies a circular movement or being located in the surrounding area.
When combined, "passing around" refers to the act of transferring or circulating something from person to person in a circular or successive manner.