Existing in large numbers or occurring frequently; abundantly present, especially in reference to something undesirable.
From Old English rife meaning 'abundant, prevalent,' related to Old Norse rifr meaning 'acceptable.' The word has maintained its sense of abundance throughout its history, though it often carries negative connotations in modern usage.
While 'rife' can technically describe any abundant condition, it has developed a strong association with negative situations—areas 'rife with corruption' or gossip mills 'rife with rumors.' This semantic shift reflects our tendency to notice and talk more about problems than positive abundance.
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