Synonym Chooser

How is the word affix distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of affix are attach, fasten, and fix. While all these words mean "to make something stay firmly in place," affix implies an imposing of one thing on another by gluing, impressing, or nailing.

affix your address label here

When can attach be used instead of affix?

The words attach and affix are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, attach suggests a connecting or uniting by a bond, link, or tie in order to keep things together.

attach the W-2 form here

When is it sensible to use fasten instead of affix?

The synonyms fasten and affix are sometimes interchangeable, but fasten implies an action such as tying, buttoning, nailing, locking, or otherwise securing.

fasten the reins to a post

When might fix be a better fit than affix?

While in some cases nearly identical to affix, fix usually implies a driving in, implanting, or embedding.

fixed the stake in the ground

Examples Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of affix Meanwhile, in Boston, authorities willingly affixed googly eyes to the front of some subway trains earlier this year. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 17 Dec. 2024 The shooter’s pistol, which police said was affixed with a silencer device, appears to jam. Christopher Cann, The Courier-Journal, 5 Dec. 2024 The freckled boy with kind eyes was wearing an orange and pink suit with a parachute flap affixed to the back of his wheelchair. Bryan West, The Tennessean, 20 Dec. 2024 Beer’s red velvet corseted minidress included a large bow appliqué at the hemline and a small sprig of mistletoe affixed to the bodice. Hannah Malach, WWD, 15 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for affix 

Thesaurus Entries Near affix

Cite this Entry

“Affix.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/affix. Accessed 21 Jan. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on affix

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