expand

verb

(transitive) To increase the extent, number, volume or scope of (something).

(transitive) To change (something) from a smaller form or size to a larger one; to spread out or lay open.

(intransitive) To change or grow from smaller to larger in form, number, or size.

(intransitive) To increase in extent, number, volume or scope.

(transitive) To express (something) at length and/or in detail.

(intransitive) To speak or write at length or in detail.

(intransitive, algebra, of an expression) To become, by rewriting, a longer, yet equivalent, sum of terms.

(transitive, algebra) To rewrite (an expression) as a longer, yet equivalent, sum of terms.

(transitive, computing) In a hierarchical list (such as a directory tree or table of contents), to show the subentries of (an entry).

(transitive, arithmetic) To multiply both the numerator and the denominator of a fraction by the same (non-zero) number (which yields a fraction of equal value).

(intransitive) To feel generous or optimistic.

Roots

pando-pand · Latin · spread out

Synonyms for expand

enlargev extendv broadenv dilatev widenv amplifyv inflatev greatenv augmentv distendv expatiatev growv increasen lengthenv outspreadadj deepenv magnifyv

Synonyms & related words for expand

Find synonyms, related words, and the definition of expand — including enlarge, extend, broaden, dilate, widen, amplify. Dendril is a free visual thesaurus that shows them on an interactive map where stronger matches sit closer to the center — no signup, no ads.

Words related to expand

Explore words related to expand — words associated with it, words that go with it, and its nearest matches in meaning. Related words include overexpand, expansile, dispread, unexpanded, enlargeable, exsert, expansion, overexpansion. Click any word to make it the center of the map and keep exploring the web of connections.

Synonyms for expand

Common synonyms for expand include enlarge, extend, broaden, dilate, widen, amplify, inflate, greaten — words that share a close meaning. Hover or tap any word on the map for its definition and part of speech.

Where does expand come from?

The word expand breaks down into one root of Latin origin: the root -pand, from Latin pando (“spread out”). Explore each root to see other English words built from the same source.