Expand Definition

ĭk-spănd
expanded, expanding, expands
verb
expanded, expanding, expands
To become expanded; spread out, unfold, enlarge, etc.
Webster's New World
To increase the size, volume, quantity, or scope of; enlarge.
Expanded her store by adding a second room.
American Heritage
To become affable, warmly communicative, etc.
Webster's New World
To enlarge upon (a topic, idea, etc.); develop in detail.
Webster's New World
To open (something) up or out; spread out.
The bird expanded its wings and flew off.
American Heritage

Origin of Expand

  • Recorded in Middle English since 1422, from Anglo-Norman espaundre, from Latin expandere present active infinitive of expandō (“to spread out”), itself from ex- (“out, outwards”) + pandō (“to spread”).

    From Wiktionary

  • Middle English expanden to spread out from Latin expandere ex- ex- pandere to spread petə- in Indo-European roots

    From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition

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