expand Definition
- 1to become or make something greater in size, number, or importance
- 2to speak or write about something in more detail, or to explain something that was not clear before
- 3to open something that is folded so that it covers a larger area than before
Using expand: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "expand" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The company plans to expand its operations overseas.
Example
She expanded on her earlier comments during the interview.
Example
He expanded the map to show more details.
Example
The foam expands when it comes into contact with air.
Example
The universe is expanding at an accelerating rate.
expand Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using expand
Example
The company's profits have been expanding like a balloon in recent years.
Example
Eating too much junk food can cause you to expand your waistline.
Example
Studying philosophy can help you expand your mind and think more critically.
Phrases with expand
Example
Traveling to different countries can help you expand your horizons.
Example
Can you expand on what you meant by that?
expand one's vocabulary
to learn and use new words
Example
Reading books is a great way to expand your vocabulary.
Origins of expand
from Latin 'expandere', meaning 'to spread out'
Summary: expand in Brief
The verb 'expand' [ɪkˈspænd] means to increase in size, number, or importance, or to provide more detail or explanation. It can also refer to opening something that was previously folded. Examples include 'The company plans to expand its operations overseas,' and 'He expanded the map to show more details.' Phrases like 'expand your horizons' and idioms like 'expand one's waistline' add nuance to the term.