expand

verb ex·pand \ik-ˈspand\

: to increase in size, range, or amount : to become bigger

: to cause (something) to increase in size, range, or amount : to make (something) bigger

: to write (something) in full form

Full Definition of EXPAND

transitive verb

: to open up : unfold

: to increase the extent, number, volume, or scope of : enlarge

a : to express at length or in greater detail

b : to write out in full <expand all abbreviations>

c : to subject to mathematical expansion <expand a function in a power series>

intransitive verb

: to open out : spread

: to increase in extent, number, volume, or scope

: to speak or write fully or in detail <expanded on the theme>

: to feel generous or optimistic

— ex·pand·abil·i·ty \-ˌspan-də-ˈbi-lə-tē\ noun

— ex·pand·able \-ˈspan-də-bəl\ adjective

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Origin of EXPAND

Middle English expaunden, from Latin expandere, from ex- + pandere to spread — more at fathom

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to EXPAND

Synonyms: amplify, develop, dilate (on or upon), elaborate (on), enlarge (on or upon), flesh (out)

Antonyms: abbreviate, abridge, condense, shorten

Synonym Discussion of EXPAND

expand, amplify, swell, distend, inflate, dilate mean to increase in size or volume. expand may apply regardless of the manner of increase (as growth, unfolding, addition of parts) <a business that expands every year>. amplify implies the extension or enlargement of something inadequate <amplify the statement with details>. swell implies gradual expansion beyond a thing's original or normal limits <the bureaucracy swelled to unmanageable proportions>. distend implies outward extension caused by pressure from within <a distended abdomen>. inflate implies expanding by introduction of air or something insubstantial and suggests a vulnerability to sudden collapse <an inflated ego>. dilate applies especially to expansion of circumference <dilated pupils>.