broaden

verb

broad·​en ˈbrȯ-dᵊn How to pronounce broaden (audio)
broadened; broadening ˈbrȯd-niŋ How to pronounce broaden (audio)
ˈbrȯ-dᵊn-iŋ

intransitive verb

: to become broad

Examples of broaden in a Sentence

They need to broaden their understanding of other cultures. The police have broadened the scope of the investigation. Her smile broadened when I told her the good news. The investigation has broadened to include the mayor's staff. His interests broadened to include art and music, not just sports.
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.
However, a robust economy and broadening earnings participation are important foundations that should underpin U.S. equities over the intermediate term. Jeffrey Schulze, Forbes, 10 Dec. 2024 The companies also announced that Sky UK and Warner Bros. Discovery have broadened their collaboration to bring the very best of Warner Bros. Discovery television and movies to Sky UK and NOW customers through a new long-term partnership in the UK and Ireland. Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 9 Dec. 2024 This broadens your network with varied viewpoints and fosters richer ideas and insights, which are essential for innovative thinking and culturally resonant solutions. Rolling Stone Culture Council, Rolling Stone, 6 Dec. 2024 Additionally, the act broadened the state agriculture department’s oversight, giving it authority to establish minimum training standards and conduct unannounced ride inspections to identify potential hazards. Cristóbal Reyes, Orlando Sentinel, 6 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for broaden 

Word History

First Known Use

1727, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of broaden was in 1727

Cite this Entry

“Broaden.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/broaden. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

broaden

verb
broad·​en ˈbrȯd-ᵊn How to pronounce broaden (audio)
broadened; broadening ˈbrȯd-niŋ How to pronounce broaden (audio)
-ᵊn-iŋ
: to make or become broad or broader
broaden your horizons
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!