expand

[ɪkˈspænd]

expand Definition

• 1. to become or make something greater in size, number, or importance
• 2. to speak or write about something in more detail, or to explain something that was not clear before
• 3. to 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

Synonyms for expand

• increase
• enlarge
• extend
• develop
• grow

Antonyms for expand

• shrink
• reduce
• contract

Idioms Using expand

• expand like a balloon

  to grow rapidly and uncontrollably

  Example

  The company's profits have been expanding like a balloon in recent years.

• expand one's waistline

  to gain weight, especially around the stomach area

  Example

  Eating too much junk food can cause you to expand your waistline.

• expand one's mind

  to broaden one's intellectual or spiritual horizons

  Example

  Studying philosophy can help you expand your mind and think more critically.

Phrases with expand

• expand your horizons

  to increase the range of one's knowledge, experience, or interests

  Example

  Traveling to different countries can help you expand your horizons.

• expand on something

  to provide more information or details about something

  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'

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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.