Definition of affixnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word affix distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of affix are attach, fasten, and fix. While all these words mean "to make something stay firmly in place," affix implies an imposing of one thing on another by gluing, impressing, or nailing.

affix your address label here

When can attach be used instead of affix?

The words attach and affix are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, attach suggests a connecting or uniting by a bond, link, or tie in order to keep things together.

attach the W-2 form here

When is it sensible to use fasten instead of affix?

The synonyms fasten and affix are sometimes interchangeable, but fasten implies an action such as tying, buttoning, nailing, locking, or otherwise securing.

fasten the reins to a post

When might fix be a better fit than affix?

While in some cases nearly identical to affix, fix usually implies a driving in, implanting, or embedding.

fixed the stake in the ground

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of affix That sounds simple, but the complexity of counting calories went mainstream recently, when a lawsuit accused the maker of David protein bars of affixing labels that misrepresent how many calories and how much fat the products contain. ABC News, 7 July 2026 Anixter rarely missed home games over his six decade stretch and the team has honored that commitment by affixing his name permanently to his Section 18 seats at Wrigley. Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026 They are affixed to the inky blue background, yet its maker(s), who apparently stitched each luminary on by hand, failed to catch all the edges on many of the stars – leaving another clue. Rebekah Riess, CNN Money, 4 July 2026 On Saturday morning, those handmade signs were gone, some of the tape used to affix them still in place. Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for affix
Recent Examples of Synonyms for affix
attach
Verb
  • This is the first time Xi has attended the flagship event since its launch in 2018, a clear signal of the importance Beijing attaches to AI and the mounting competition with the US to lead its future.
    Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 17 July 2026
  • The twist is that she’s already attached to Reynolds (Ben Foster), who looks like a dweeb — but is, in fact, an extremely wealthy and powerful drug kingpin.
    Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 16 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Affix.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/affix. Accessed 18 Jul. 2026.

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