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

Unlike some finalists who launched extensive campaigns, Robinson made only one post thanking people for considering him. — Kansas City Star, 28 July 2026

After an extensive evaluation at the Mayo Clinic, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. — Denise Petski, Deadline, 27 July 2026

As well as the sculptures, there’s an extensive display of the artist’s one-of-a-kind, glittering jewelry pieces. — Joanne Shurvell, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026

Every student loan article is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of student loan and credit products. — Liz Knueven, CNBC, 27 July 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