Definitions

widen

[wahyd-n] / ˈwaɪd n /

VERB

open up

Synonyms

STRONGEST

add to broaden enlarge expand extend grow increase multiply stretch swell

STRONG

augment dilate distend open ream spread unfold

WEAK

grow larger open out open wide spread out

Antonyms

STRONGEST

abridge compress concentrate condense contract curtail decrease diminish lessen lower reduce shorten shrink

STRONG

block close conceal hide

WEAK

cramp narrow restrict

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Cracks that had been familiar the day before seemed like they’d widened overnight.

From Literature

Income inequality also helps explain the widening gap between the U.S. and its peers.

From Science Daily

December’s trade surplus likely widened slightly, as export growth outpaced a contraction in imports.

From The Wall Street Journal

They held placards that read "we won't pay", condemning the widening gap between incomes and bills.

From Barron's

It let its tongue loll out and its nostrils widen.

From Literature