amplify

verb

am·​pli·​fy ˈam-plə-ˌfī How to pronounce amplify (audio)
amplified; amplifying

transitive verb

1
: to expand (something, such as a statement) by the use of detail or illustration or by closer analysis
2
a
: to make larger or greater (as in amount, importance, or intensity) : increase
b
: to increase the strength or amount of
especially : to make louder
c
: to cause (a gene or DNA sequence) to undergo amplification

intransitive verb

: to expand one's remarks or ideas
Choose the Right Synonym for amplify

expand, amplify, swell, distend, inflate, dilate mean to increase in size or volume.

expand may apply regardless of the manner of increase (such as growth, unfolding, addition of parts).

a business that expands every year

amplify implies the extension or enlargement of something inadequate.

amplify the statement with details

swell implies gradual expansion beyond a thing's original or normal limits.

the bureaucracy swelled to unmanageable proportions

distend implies outward extension caused by pressure from within.

a distended abdomen

inflate implies expanding by introduction of air or something insubstantial and suggests a vulnerability to sudden collapse.

an inflated ego

dilate applies especially to expansion of circumference.

dilated pupils

Examples of amplify in a Sentence

amplify a weak radio signal a receiver that amplified the television signal using spices to amplify the flavors of the food
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Whether brainstorming, skill development, or logistical support, AI should amplify natural intelligence and interpersonal relationships, not substitute them. Cornelia C. Walther, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025 These traditional genre inclusions amplify a sense of Puerto Rican cultural pride and authenticity, significantly resonating with a broader Latino audience. Jason Lipshutz, Billboard, 22 Jan. 2025 For an eight consecutive year, Macro returns to the Sundance Film Festival with a lineup of programming that spotlights and amplifies the voices and works of filmmakers of color at the Macro Lodge. Angelique Jackson, Variety, 22 Jan. 2025 Soft textures, faded colored patterns and gentle proportions amplified the languid and rustic mood via a series of comfy cardigans and crewneck sweaters. Sandra Salibian, WWD, 21 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for amplify 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English amplifien "to enlarge, increase," borrowed from Middle French & Latin; Middle French amplifier, borrowed from Latin amplificāre "to increase the size of, augment," from amplus "more than adequate in size or extent, ample" + -i- -i- + -ficāre -fy

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of amplify was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near amplify

Cite this Entry

“Amplify.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amplify. Accessed 28 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

amplify

verb
am·​pli·​fy ˈam-plə-ˌfī How to pronounce amplify (audio)
amplified; amplifying
1
: enlarge sense 2
especially : to add details or illustrations to
amplify a statement
2
: to increase (voltage, current, or power) in magnitude or strength

Medical Definition

amplify

transitive verb
am·​pli·​fy -ˌfī How to pronounce amplify (audio)
amplified; amplifying
1
: to make larger or greater (as in amount or intensity)
2
: to increase the strength or amount of
especially : to make louder
3
: to cause (a gene or DNA sequence) to undergo amplification

More from Merriam-Webster on amplify

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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