widen

[ wahyd-n ]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to make or become wide or wider; broaden; expand.

widen

/ ˈwaɪdən /

verb

1. to make or become wide or wider

Derived Forms

• ˈwidener, noun

Other Words From

• widen·er noun
• re·widen verb
• un·widened adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of widen¹

First recorded in 1600–10; wide + -en ¹

Example Sentences

Already set in motion are cascading toxic effects on social discourse and political dynamics, marked by widening acceptance and promotion of overt bigotries and brandished hatreds.

From Salon

While the initial investigations surrounded discretionary commission arrangements, which were banned in 2021, the Court of Appeal decision widened the scope to any car finance commissions.

From BBC

He points to current wars, climate change and a widening global wealth gap.

From BBC

The Biden administration kept the measures in place and in some cases widened them.

From BBC

On Ukraine’s frosty battlefields, in bustling urban cafes in Europe and Asia, on Middle Eastern street corners, there were gasps and widened eyes as the news flashed on televisions and smartphone screens.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• add to
• broaden
• enlarge
• expand
• extend
• grow
• increase
• multiply
• stretch
• swell