Main Entry:

¹wide

Pronunciation:

\ˈwīd\

Function:

adjective

Inflected Form(s):

wider; wid·est

Etymology:

Middle English, from Old English wīd; akin to Old High German wīt wide

Date:

before 12th century

1 a: having great extent : vast <a wide area> b: extending over a vast area : extensive <a wide reputation> c: extending throughout a specified area or scope —usually used in combination <nationwide><industry-wide> d: comprehensive, inclusive <a wide assortment>2 a: having a specified extension from side to side <3 feet wide> b: having much extent between the sides : broad <a wide doorway> c: fully opened <wide-eyed> d: lax 43 a: extending or fluctuating considerably between limits <a wide variation> b: straying or deviating from something specified —used with of<the accusation was wide of the truth>4of an animal ration : relatively rich in carbohydrate as compared with protein

synonyms see broad

— wide·ness noun