expanse

noun

ex·​panse ik-ˈspan(t)s How to pronounce expanse (audio)
1
2
: great extent of something spread out
an expanse of calm ocean

Examples of expanse in a Sentence

The explorer gazed across the vast Arctic expanse. the great explorers who crossed the vast expanses of the seven seas in small ships
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.
The best way to experience this smooth expanse of sand is with a stay at the beach’s most iconic hotel, the Malibu Beach Inn, which has rooms with balconies that extend directly over breaking waves. Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 20 Oct. 2025 The whole idea of landscapes opened up an expanse of ideas. Marcia Luttrell, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Oct. 2025 The double-height living room has a striking brick and mirror-paneled fireplace and large expanses of glass. Wendy Bowman, Robb Report, 17 Oct. 2025 Its 392-foot tower, said to be the tallest church edifice in the United States, offers spectacular views from its perch on a hill at 122nd Street, overlooking the Hudson River to the west, skyscrapers to the south, and the sprawling expanse of Harlem and the South Bronx to the north and east. Luke Cyphers, Sportico.com, 17 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for expanse

Word History

Etymology

New Latin expansum, from Latin, neuter of expansus, past participle of expandere

First Known Use

1637, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of expanse was in 1637

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Expanse.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/expanse. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

expanse

noun
ex·​panse ik-ˈspan(t)s How to pronounce expanse (audio)
: a wide space, area, or stretch
the vast expanse of the ocean

More from Merriam-Webster on expanse

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