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Definitions

widen

[wahyd-n] / ˈwaɪd n /
VERB
open up
Synonyms
STRONGEST
add to broaden enlarge expand extend grow increase multiply stretch swell
STRONG
augment dilate distend open ream spread unfold
WEAK
grow larger open out open wide spread out
Antonyms
STRONGEST
abridge compress concentrate condense contract curtail decrease diminish lessen lower reduce shorten shrink
STRONG
block close conceal hide
WEAK
cramp narrow restrict

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“There’s a real risk artificial intelligence could widen wealth inequality,” BlackRock BLK -0.10%decrease; red down pointing triangle Chief Executive Officer Larry Fink wrote in his annual shareholder letter in March.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

That bench decided to widen the ambit of the hearings and include in the review a number of similar cases from other faiths.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

The cells produced much less nitric oxide, which helps blood vessels relax and widen, and more endothelin-1, which causes vessels to tighten.

From Science Daily • Mar. 28, 2026

This divergence could further widen economic, financial and policy gaps across regions.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 26, 2026

Fadi blinked anxiously and turned away from the girl to watch his cousin’s eyes widen at the row of new releases.

From "Shooting Kabul" by N. H. Senzai