amplification

noun

am·​pli·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌam-plə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce amplification (audio)
1
a
: an act, example, or product of amplifying
b
: a usually massive replication of genetic material and especially of a gene or DNA sequence (as in a polymerase chain reaction)
2
a
: the particulars by which a statement is expanded
b
: an expanded statement

Examples of amplification in a Sentence

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.
Academics who study culture and media ethics say the case raises concerns about the amplification of baseless theories on social media. Jakob Rodgers, The Mercury News, 15 Feb. 2025 The amplification managed to illuminate Third Coast, which was joined by flutist Constance Volk. Mark Swed, Los Angeles Times, 14 Feb. 2025 Her work as a creator and producer also confirms her commitment to storytelling and amplification. Alejandra Rojas, Forbes, 4 Mar. 2025 An acoustics expert from Lincoln Center was hired to create pin-drop perfect sound in the auditorium, since symphonies and operas perform without amplification. Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for amplification

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin amplificātiōn-, amplificātiō "act of making greater, enlarging upon (in rhetoric)," from amplificāre "to increase the size of, amplify" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action

First Known Use

1546, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of amplification was in 1546

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Amplification.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amplification. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

amplification

noun
am·​pli·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌam-plə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce amplification (audio)
: an act, example, or product of amplifying

Medical Definition

amplification

noun
am·​pli·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌam-plə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce amplification (audio)
1
: an act, example, or product of amplifying
2
: a usually massive replication of genetic material and especially of a gene or DNA sequence (as in a polymerase chain reaction)

More from Merriam-Webster on amplification

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!