extensive

adjective

ex·​ten·​sive ik-ˈsten(t)-siv How to pronounce extensive (audio)
1
: having wide or considerable extent
extensive reading
2
3
: of, relating to, or constituting farming in which large areas of land are utilized with minimum outlay and labor
extensively adverb
extensiveness noun

Examples of extensive in a Sentence

The storm caused extensive damage. an extensive series of tests
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.
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 See All Example Sentences for extensive

Word History

First Known Use

1604, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of extensive was in 1604

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Cite this Entry

“Extensive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/extensive. Accessed 14 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

extensive

adjective
ex·​ten·​sive ik-ˈsten(t)-siv How to pronounce extensive (audio)
: having wide or large extent
extensively adverb
extensiveness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on extensive

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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