extensive

adjective

ex·​ten·​sive ik-ˈsten(t)-siv 

1

: having wide or considerable extent

extensive reading

2

: extensional

3

: of, relating to, or constituting farming in which large areas of land are utilized with minimum outlay and labor

extensively adverb

extensiveness noun

Synonyms

• broad
• deep
• expansive
• extended
• far-flung
• far-reaching
• rangy
• sweeping
• wide
• wide-ranging
• widespread

Examples of extensive in a Sentence

The storm caused extensive damage.

an extensive series of tests

Recent Examples on the Web

London’s pricing zones are the most extensive and the most well-known. —Laurie Winkless, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025

Methodology Our tester tried Dyson's extensive portfolio of hair tools, testing each product repeatedly over the course of several weeks to evaluate its ease of use, performance, and effectiveness. —Siena Gagliano, Allure, 11 Mar. 2025

This distinction largely stems from its extensive access to health care facilities—there are 22 hospitals and 1,500 other health care establishments in Bernalillo County—and a relatively low cost of living. —Travel + Leisure Editors, Travel + Leisure, 11 Mar. 2025

Very strong winds could cause extensive tree damage. —Ca Weather Bot, Sacramento Bee, 11 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1604, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for extensive

• defensive
• expensive
• intensive
• offensive
• ostensive
• prehensive
• suspensive
• antihypertensive
• apprehensive
• coextensive
• comprehensive
• hypertensive

Kids Definition

extensive

adjective

ex·​ten·​sive ik-ˈsten(t)-siv 

: having wide or large extent

extensively adverb

extensiveness noun