broadens; broadened; broadening
1
: to make (something) wider or more general
They need to broaden their understanding of other cultures.
The police have broadened the scope of the investigation.
Travel can help to broaden your horizons/mind. [=increase the range of your knowledge, understanding, or experience]
2
: to become wider or more general
The road broadens [=widens] near the airport.
Her smile broadened when I told her the good news.
The investigation has broadened to include the mayor's staff.
His interests broadened to include art and music, not just sports.
Cite this Entry
“Broaden.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/broaden. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.
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