augment

Definition of augmentnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb augment contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of augment are enlarge, increase, and multiply. While all these words mean "to make or become greater," augment implies addition to what is already well grown or well developed.

the inheritance augmented his fortune

When is it sensible to use enlarge instead of augment?

The words enlarge and augment can be used in similar contexts, but enlarge implies expansion or extension that makes greater in size or capacity.

enlarged the kitchen

When might increase be a better fit than augment?

In some situations, the words increase and augment are roughly equivalent. However, increase used intransitively implies progressive growth in size, amount, or intensity; used transitively it may imply simple not necessarily progressive addition.

his waistline increased with age
increased her landholdings

Where would multiply be a reasonable alternative to augment?

While in some cases nearly identical to augment, multiply implies increase in number by natural generation or by indefinite repetition of a process.

with each attempt the problems multiplied

Example 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 augment Third, augment human capabilities with AI, connected architecture and long-term partnerships — with humans always in the lead. Harpreet Sidhu, Fortune, 13 June 2026 With Ethan Hawke's newbie simmering against the go-for-broke finesse of Denzel Washington's very bad, no-good officer, Training Day revels in tension, with washes of blue and green augmenting scenes where Hawke is bullied into getting high. Eric Farwell, Entertainment Weekly, 12 June 2026 To augment the content, team these seasonal treats with other rich protein sources. Randi Gollin, Martha Stewart, 10 June 2026 The actor’s ensemble was augmented by the delicate pieces of diamond jewelry D’Arcy used to accessorize their look, totaling to more than $65,000. Julia Teti, Footwear News, 9 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for augment
Recent Examples of Synonyms for augment
Verb
  • Your visibility increases with the start of Cancer season.
    USA TODAY, USA Today, 21 June 2026
  • Health officials said the risk of exposure could increase as summer travel ramps up and Los Angeles welcomes international visitors for FIFA World Cup events being held in the region.
    Brittany Miller, FOXNews.com, 20 June 2026
Verb
  • Love’s Travel Stops just expanded its service offerings for RVs, including light maintenance, battery replacement and tire replacement.
    Eve Chen, USA Today, 23 June 2026
  • California's new personal finance graduation requirement The lessons come as California prepares to expand financial education statewide.
    Conor McGill, CBS News, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • Britain's revolving door of prime minister, affecting both Labour and Conservative parties, accelerated in the wake of the 2016 Brexit vote to leave the European Union economic bloc.
    Kim Hjelmgaard, USA Today, 22 June 2026
  • And the pace of technology change is only accelerating.
    Rob Toews, Forbes.com, 22 June 2026
Verb
  • The couple had their second baby late last year, with support from a program launched by the government in 2013 to boost Parsi numbers.
    Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 21 June 2026
  • This herb may boost the immune system’s response to certain infections, including upper respiratory infections and skin infections.
    Carrie Madormo, Verywell Health, 20 June 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Augment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/augment. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on augment

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster