expansive

adjective

ex·​pan·​sive ik-ˈspan(t)-siv 

1

: having a capacity or a tendency to expand

2

: causing or tending to cause expansion

3

a

: characterized by high spirits, generosity, or readiness to talk : open

grew expansive after dinner

b

: marked by or indicative of exaggerated euphoria and delusions of self-importance

an expansive patient

4

: marked by expansion

especially : having a great expanse or extent : sizable, extensive

an expansive interpretation of the law

5

: characterized by richness, abundance, or magnificence

expansive living

expansive taste

expansively adverb

expansiveness noun

Synonyms

• extensive
• broad
• wide
• sweeping
• deep

Examples of expansive in a Sentence

He was unusually expansive at the press conference.

She was in an expansive mood.

The law was expansive in its scope.

a more expansive treatment of the topic

the hotel's expansive dining room

The house has expansive views of the valley.

Recent Examples on the Web

For the most discerning travelers, the Noble and Royal suites offer expansive layouts with separate living and dining areas, impeccable design, and panoramic views of the Las Vegas skyline—the perfect contrast to the natural vistas experienced during your Zion adventure. —Shelby Knick, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2025

But making the most of this requires expansive thinking. —The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 7 Aug. 2025

Tall sash windows, detailed moldings, and parquet flooring are just three key features trailing the home near Connaught Village, not to mention the park’s expansive green space that affords sunlit walks along the Serpentine. —Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 6 Aug. 2025

Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items. —Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 6 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1651, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

expansive

adjective

ex·​pan·​sive ik-ˈspan(t)-siv 

1

: having a capacity or a tendency to expand

gases are expansive

2

: causing or tending to cause expansion

an expansive force

3

: being in a good or talkative mood

4

: having considerable extent : broad

expansively adverb

expansiveness noun

Medical Definition

expansive

adjective

ex·​pan·​sive ik-ˈspan(t)-siv 

: marked by or indicative of exaggerated euphoria and delusions of self-importance

a patient with expansive trends

expansiveness

-nəs 

noun