Expand

Quick meaning: Expand is a verb meaning (transitive) To change (something) from a smaller form or size to a larger one; to spread out or lay open.

Meaning

(transitive) To change (something) from a smaller form or size to a larger one; to spread out or lay open.

More Meanings

1. (transitive) To increase the extent, number, volume or scope of (something).
2. (transitive) To express (something) at length and/or in detail.
3. (transitive, algebra) To rewrite (an expression) as a longer, yet equivalent, sum of terms.
4. (intransitive, algebra, of an expression) To become, by rewriting, a longer, yet equivalent, sum of terms.
5. (intransitive) To change or grow from smaller to larger in form, number, or size.
6. (intransitive) To increase in extent, number, volume or scope.
7. (transitive, arithmetic) To multiply both the numerator and the denominator of a fraction by the same (non-zero) number (which yields a fraction of equal value).

Example Sentences

A flower expands its leaves.

Expanding 4#47;7 by 3 gives 12#47;21.

Then with expanded wings he steers his flight.

Use the binomial theorem to expand #123;(x#43;1)#125;⁴.

Word Forms

• expands
• expanding
• expanded
• expandest
• expandedst
• expandeth

Synonyms for expand

Depending on context, synonyms include spread, unfold, enlarge, elaborate, expound, flourish.

Antonyms for expand

Common opposites include contract, limit, factor, collapse.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include extend, enlarge, dilate, amplify, elaborate, expound.

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