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 of extensive

• broad
• wide
• sweeping
• comprehensive
• deep
• expansive
• extended
• widespread

Examples of extensive in a Sentence

The storm caused extensive damage.

an extensive series of tests

Recent Examples on the Web

Picking a cocktail from the extensive menu feels akin to being a kid in a sweet shop. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Mar. 2026

Qatar, a key source of natural gas for world markets, said Iranian missiles caused extensive damage to the Ras Laffan liquefied natural gas facility, where production had already been halted after earlier attacks. —Democrat-Gazette Staff From Wire Reports, Arkansas Online, 20 Mar. 2026

Inside the kitchen connects to an extensive service wing that includes four staff bedrooms. —Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 20 Mar. 2026

This is an extensive experience, designed for sharing and exploring multiple flavors. —Imelda García, Dallas Morning News, 20 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1605, 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