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.
As the foundation of modern software development, APIs facilitate inter-application communication and fuel digital transformation, research firm International Data Corp. said in a report, and this critical role has broadened the attack surface, making APIs a prime target for cybercriminals. Bob Violino, CNBC, 15 Feb. 2025 Since its founding, Ring Concierge has broadened its scope beyond engagement rings to fine jewelry. Arthur Zaczkiewicz, WWD, 14 Feb. 2025 The unisex design also broadens their appeal, offering a stylish and comfortable option for a wide range of wearers. Will Porter, Travel + Leisure, 12 Feb. 2025 The Midnight Rules Relief Act, approved in a largely party-line vote, broadens the authority Republicans have to overturn the blitz of regulations Biden finalized before leaving office. David Sivak, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 12 Feb. 2025 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 21 Feb. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on broaden

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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