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

In dry climates, where rainfall is limited but dew may be common, an extensive network of shallow roots may be better equipped to maximize absorption of any moisture that touches the soil. —Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 4 June 2026

Following Sarti’s appointment, White will establish a steering committee composed of entrepreneurs and professionals with extensive international market experience. —Andrea Onate, Footwear News, 4 June 2026

This process requires extensive hand labor and expertise, as the end result will be visible in the car’s appearance. —Jerry Perez, The Drive, 4 June 2026

The incident forced Caltrans to shut the road, but the damage was so extensive no human inspector could fit inside the culvert. —William Melhado, Sacbee.com, 4 June 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