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 Screws and bolts are affixed randomly throughout the design including coils on the lace tips. Riley Jones, Footwear News, 30 Oct. 2025 The other was an official air force photo with a gold star denoting his new rank affixed to the shoulder epaulet. Joshua Goodman, Fortune, 28 Oct. 2025 Banners and signs must be hand-held and may not obstruct the view of other guests or Mortgage Matchup Center advertising signage or be temporarily or permanently affixed to the building structure. Ed Masley, AZCentral.com, 27 Oct. 2025 Kris Jenner is waiting in a Rolls-Royce out front, affixed with the same KngKylie plates and a glove compartment full of the upcoming Kylie Cosmetics lip gloss launch. Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 14 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for affix
Recent Examples of Synonyms for affix
attach
Verb
  • Inman said the bulk of the left engine pylon was still attached to the left engine when the engine separated from the wing.
    Clara McMichael, ABC News, 8 Nov. 2025
  • Two guys sat on New York public transit, talking into little mics attached to their Metro cards.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 7 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Affix.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/affix. Accessed 23 Nov. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on affix

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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