expander

noun

ex·​pand·​er ik-ˈspan-dər How to pronounce expander (audio)
: one that expands
specifically : any of several colloidal substances (such as dextran) of high molecular weight used as a blood or plasma substitute for increasing the blood volume

Examples of expander 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.
Since then, Wilson has had four revision surgeries and another procedure to place two new tissue expanders in her forehead. Meredith Wilshere, PEOPLE, 11 Oct. 2025 Researchers inspecting the turbo expander developed for a large-scale, long-duration Liquid Air Energy Storage system. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 12 Sep. 2025 This capability is particularly useful for patients with magnetic spinal rods or breast tissue expanders, as adjustments can be made throughout the recovery process, ensuring the best possible outcome. Jennifer Esposito, Forbes.com, 16 June 2025 And how common are the particularly good expander graphs for which this tension is highest? Leila Sloman, Quanta Magazine, 18 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for expander

Word History

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of expander was in 1862

Cite this Entry

“Expander.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/expander. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025.

Medical Definition

expander

noun
ex·​pand·​er ik-ˈspan-dər How to pronounce expander (audio)
: any of several colloidal substances (as dextran) of high molecular weight used as a blood or plasma substitute for increasing the blood volume

called also extender

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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