serpiginously

/sərˈpɪdʒənəsli/
adverb
  1. In a creeping or spreading manner, like a snake or a rash.
    • The mold grew serpiginously along the damp wall.
    • The infection spread serpiginously across the skin.
    • The crack moved serpiginously through the old plaster.
  2. Figuratively, in a gradual and indirect way that is hard to stop.
    • The problem developed serpiginously, becoming worse over time.
    • His influence expanded serpiginously, without anyone noticing at first.
    • The rumor spread serpiginously through the office.
What does "serpiginously" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean