extensive

adjective

ex·​ten·​sive ik-ˈsten(t)-siv 

1

: having wide or considerable extent

extensive reading

2

: extensional

3

: of, relating to, or constituting farming in which large areas of land are utilized with minimum outlay and labor

extensively adverb

extensiveness noun

Synonyms

• broad
• deep
• expansive
• extended
• far-flung
• far-reaching
• rangy
• sweeping
• wide
• wide-ranging
• widespread

Examples of extensive in a Sentence

The storm caused extensive damage.

an extensive series of tests

Recent Examples on the Web

Google got in early with its extensive Pixel 9 discount, Samsung is preparing to launch its new Galaxy S25 Edge with a money-off promotion, and now the iPhone 16 has joined in with price cuts across all models of the 2024 Apple phone. —Janhoi McGregor, Forbes.com, 10 May 2025

Design That Adapts to Real Life Unlike traditional central systems, mini split air conditioning does not require extensive ductwork or invasive installation. —Jon Stojan, USA Today, 10 May 2025

Law enforcement and Suzanne’s brother, Andrew Moorman, led extensive searches but were unable to find her. —Emily Krauser, People.com, 10 May 2025

Check out the Connecticut Tourism Office’s extensive list of ideas and find what is right for you. —Blaine Callahan, Hartford Courant, 9 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1604, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for extensive

• defensive
• expensive
• intensive
• offensive
• ostensive
• prehensive
• suspensive
• antihypertensive
• apprehensive
• coextensive
• comprehensive
• hypertensive

Kids Definition

extensive

adjective

ex·​ten·​sive ik-ˈsten(t)-siv 

: having wide or large extent

extensively adverb

extensiveness noun