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.
The collaboration also introduces a capsule collection of ready-to-wear and accessories to broaden its appeal, featuring technical apparel and distinctive outerwear designed for active lifestyles. Essence, 9 May 2025 More people died in police chases in this Denver suburb than in the state’s biggest cities The Denver Post examined the region’s approach to police pursuits after the Aurora Police Department quietly broadened its policy in October to allow officers to chase more suspects. Max Levy, Denver Post, 9 May 2025 Since joining the company in 2022, Radhakrishnan has broadened his responsibilities to include oversight of core technology platforms, information security, product management and, most recently, the Chief Data Office. Peter High, Forbes.com, 9 May 2025 The deal, which is the largest in the crypto industry to date, will help Coinbase broaden its footprint outside the U.S. Tanaya MacHeel,christina Cheddar Berk, CNBC, 8 May 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 20 May. 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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