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 a creditor temporary possession of his debtor's property

3

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

Synonyms

• 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

While a higher-than-expected PPI report would garner attention, the CPI will be more critical, as the extent to which price increases, including those from tariffs, reach consumers is the crucial variable. —Bill Stone, Forbes.com, 7 Sep. 2025

The thing to note here is that Bowers will still need to undergo tests to determine the extent of the injury. —James Brizuela, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Sep. 2025

The frontcourt outlook hinges to some extent on Holmes, who missed his would-be rookie year with a torn Achilles tendon last season. —Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 7 Sep. 2025

And even as China emphasizes that its military is for defensive purposes, its show of strength on Wednesday has given analysts around the world a clear look at the extent of its offensive capabilities and its vast capacity to produce arms. —Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 6 Sep. 2025

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