extent

noun

ex·​tent ik-ˈstent 

1

a

: the range over which something extends : scope

the extent of her jurisdiction

b

: the amount of space or surface that something occupies or the distance over which it extends : magnitude

the extent of the forest

c

: the point, degree, or limit to which something extends

using talents to the greatest extent

2

a

: seizure (as of land) in execution of a writ of extent in Great Britain

also : the condition of being so seized

b

: a writ giving to the creditor temporary possession of the debtor's property

3

archaic : valuation (as of land) in Great Britain especially for taxation

Synonyms of extent

• limit
• limitation
• confines
• boundary

Examples of extent in a Sentence

She tried to determine the extent of the damage.

the full extent of human knowledge

He questions the extent to which these remedies are needed.

Recent Examples on the Web

Given that genocide involves mass murder and the destruction of life, including the elimination of access to food and medicine, its definition in the Rome Statute overlaps to some extent with the broader definition of crimes against humanity. — Brian Duignan, Encyclopedia Britannica, 9 July 2026

Another reason why the outlook for oil is remaining steady is because trading during this conflict has proven the extent of the ample energy supplies from America. — Brian Sullivan, CNBC, 9 July 2026

The cause of the fire, which took place in the air-conditioning system of a building dedicated to architecture, is still under investigation, as is the full extent of the damage. — Devorah Lauter, ARTnews.com, 8 July 2026

Almost, by definition, to the extent the Fed moves away from forward guidance the actions of the FOMC will become a little less predictable. — Simon Moore, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French estente, extente land valuation, from extendre, estendre to survey, evaluate, literally, to extend

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Phrases Containing extent

• to a certain extent
• to a greater/lesser degree/extent
• to a greater or lesser degree/extent
• to a great extent
• to such an extent
• to the fullest extent of
• to what extent
• writ of extent

Rhymes for extent

• accent
• advent
• ascent
• assent
• augment
• cement
• consent
• dement
• descent
• detent
• dissent
• event

Kids Definition

extent

noun

ex·​tent ik-ˈstent 

1

: the range, distance, or space over or through which something extends

the extent of the Roman empire

2

: the point, degree, or limit to which something extends

the extent of her knowledge