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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.

As and when the plan does see the light of day, the debate will then widen.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

The backwardation really began to form at the onset of the war in late February, continued to widen until April 2 and has since tightened a bit, according to Dow Jones Market Data.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 13, 2026

Will the gap between value and growth continue to widen?

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

Word-of-mouth recommendations definitely help in this situation and you need to widen your network for that, which is why open conversations are so important.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

Rufus’s eyes widen, like his mind has been blown.

From "They Both Die at the End" by Adam Silvera