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 It’s been six years since Tems’ debut single, and this dexterity and notable openness has further broadened her reach. Earl Hopkins, SPIN, 27 June 2024 This advancement could broaden its reach, potentially saving numerous lives by detecting and treating gastrointestinal issues early. Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 23 June 2024 In addition to broadening access to more diverse candidates and wanting to stay competitive with recruitment, the push to go tuition-free at USC was spurred on by the writers and actors strikes. Caitlin Huston, The Hollywood Reporter, 22 June 2024 After a very intense last few weeks, the Sun is winging its way into your boundless 9th house, encouraging you to broaden your horizons and see what possibilities are percolating out in the great wide yonder. Tarot.com, Orlando Sentinel, 20 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for broaden 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'broaden.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 2 Jul. 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!