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 His misdemeanor charges include following too closely and affixing an unauthorized sun screening device to a motor vehicle, jail records show. — Tanya Babbar, Houston Chronicle, 29 Sep. 2026 Nike also had to figure out a new way to affix the upper to the sole. — Ian Servantes, Footwear News, 29 Sep. 2026 Police reported that the pair used sticky tape to affix the works, each of which measured roughly twelve by nine inches. — News Desk, Artforum, 23 Sep. 2026 At the time it was seized, it allegedly was observed to have an empty 10-round magazine affixed within the pistol grip, according to state police. — Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 20 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for affix
Recent Examples of Synonyms for affix
attach
Verb
  • The team also evaluated methods for attaching sensors to storage casks, with the aim of developing installations capable of remaining in place for years under high-temperature and high-radiation conditions.
    — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 16 Oct. 2026
  • However, the same data came with a clear warning attached for Brussels.
    — Sophie Dembinski, Fortune, 16 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Affix.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/affix. Accessed 17 Oct. 2026.

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