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

• 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

Jude was established in 2024 by Jurgita Dileviciute and Denitsa Bumbarova, who both have extensive backgrounds in designing footwear and accessories. —Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 23 Oct. 2025

Garcia, 25, made an extensive leap this season. —Kansas City Star, 23 Oct. 2025

Advisories are issued for frost during the growing season when frost formation is expected over an extensive area. —Cheryl Vari, Cincinnati Enquirer, 23 Oct. 2025

The exercises lasted longer than usual, involved the extensive use of reservists, showcased new weaponry, and practiced urban warfare. —Lyle Goldstein, Time, 23 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1604, 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