amplification

noun

am·​pli·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌam-plə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce amplification (audio)
1
a
: an act, example, or product of amplifying
b
: a usually massive replication of genetic material and especially of a gene or DNA sequence (as in a polymerase chain reaction)
2
a
: the particulars by which a statement is expanded
b
: an expanded statement

Examples of amplification in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Which is where a unique amplification of the signal plays such a pivotal role in the fascinating sensory circuit. New Atlas, 8 Aug. 2025 This is fueled by misinformation, a growing distrust in government health authorities and the amplification of anti-vac rhetoric in social media and the popular news outlets. Armstrong Williams, Baltimore Sun, 2 Aug. 2025 The amplification of conspiracy theories about the origin of COVID has promoted a dangerously flawed understanding of pandemic risk. CNN Money, 31 July 2025 This kind of amplification, where nonpublic figures become stand-ins for public opinion, is a dangerous game. Charlie Warzel, The Atlantic, 30 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for amplification

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin amplificātiōn-, amplificātiō "act of making greater, enlarging upon (in rhetoric)," from amplificāre "to increase the size of, amplify" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action

First Known Use

1546, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of amplification was in 1546

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Amplification.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amplification. Accessed 19 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

amplification

noun
am·​pli·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌam-plə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce amplification (audio)
: an act, example, or product of amplifying

Medical Definition

amplification

noun
am·​pli·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌam-plə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce amplification (audio)
1
: an act, example, or product of amplifying
2
: a usually massive replication of genetic material and especially of a gene or DNA sequence (as in a polymerase chain reaction)

More from Merriam-Webster on amplification

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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