widely

[ wahyd-lee ]

adverb

1. to a wide extent.
2. over a wide space or area:

   a widely distributed plant.

3. by or among a large number of persons:

   a widely known artist.

4. in many or various subjects, cases, etc.:

   to be widely read.

5. greatly, very much, or very:

   widely differing accounts of an event.

Word History and Origins

Origin of widely¹

First recorded in 1655–65; wide + -ly

Example Sentences

Gaetz, as a man, appears to be widely detested by his former colleagues, given the number willing to publicly lambaste him.

From Salon

Despite these shocking revelations, mainly involving boys from elite British public schools, the Rushton report was not widely circulated.

From BBC

"The report was never published widely, conscious of the dangers of a defamation suit," Coltart said.

From BBC

The results varied widely from region to region, but in Southern California, homes protected by a fire department were 19% less likely to burn — 31% if a civilian helped defend it too.

From Los Angeles Times

Myles agrees that it "is super expensive" to tour, and feels live music more widely needs greater support.

From BBC

Related Words

• broadly
• commonly
• generally
• universally