breadth

noun

ˈbretth How to pronounce breadth (audio)
ˈbredth,
nonstandard
ˈbreth How to pronounce breadth (audio)
1
: distance from side to side : width
the height, breadth, and depth of each piece of furniture
2
: something of full width
begin with a breadth of silk
3
a
: comprehensive quality : scope
the breadth of his learning
b
: liberality of views or taste
breadth of mind
breadthwise
ˈbretth-ˌwīz How to pronounce breadth (audio)
ˈbredth-
 nonstandard  ˈbreth-
adverb or adjective

Examples of breadth in a Sentence

We measured the height, breadth, and depth of each piece of furniture. a great breadth of land awaited those who were brave and hardy enough to settle it
Recent Examples on the Web Their copilot model forms career lattices that expand both the professional depth and breadth and get multiple brains on client projects for lower rates. Nia Bowers, USA TODAY, 17 Oct. 2024 From attacks on politicians to voter identity fraud, the breadth of potential scams, fraud and cyber risk should have everyone on high alert. Adam Jackson, Forbes, 15 Oct. 2024 Yet to Fader, living like the Rockets' legend isn't about the breadth of one's exterior life. Michael Shapiro, Chron, 11 Oct. 2024 Photos and videos taken from space show the breadth of Hurricane Milton, a massive storm churning in the Gulf of Mexico towards Florida. Kerry Breen, CBS News, 9 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for breadth 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'breadth.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English breadeth, breth, from brede breadth (from Old English brǣdu, from brād broad) + -th (as in lengthe length)

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of breadth was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near breadth

Cite this Entry

“Breadth.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/breadth. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

breadth

noun
1
: distance from side to side : width
2
a
: something of full width
b
: a wide area
3
: scope entry 1 sense 2
breadth of knowledge

More from Merriam-Webster on breadth

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