expand

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   To become larger in size, amount, or extent.

   Metal expands when it is heated.

2. 2
   verb

   To make something larger or wider in size, amount, or scope.

   The company plans to expand its business into new markets.

3. 3
   verb

   To open something out or spread it to its full size.

   You can expand this compact umbrella to cover a large table.

Recorded in Middle English since 1422 (as expanden, expaunden), from Anglo-Norman espaundre, from Latin expandere (“to spread out”), itself from ex- (“out, outwards”) + pandō (“to spread”). Doublet of spawn.

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