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 Those who just want to dangle their legs and keep their posteriors affixed for the entire run, though, can still see through the clear water, especially when migrating over to pockets of shade from the trees lining either bank. Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 May 2025 The Rani affixes the vindicator to a giant clock and begins a countdown … for something. Jennifer Zhan, Vulture, 24 May 2025 The vessel’s end caps, made of titanium, were affixed to the hull with glue. Eileen Finan, People.com, 10 June 2025 The book, incidentally, is affixed with a unique and fitting page marker. Sam Farmer, Los Angeles Times, 8 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for affix
Recent Examples of Synonyms for affix
attach
Verb
  • His contract is a strong candidate to appear in a trade, however, and there’s a chance Dallas needs to attach it to an asset to get below the second apron.
    John Hollinger, New York Times, 21 June 2025
  • Make sure to cut off the silk that attaches the bag to the tree.
    Arricca Elin SanSone, Southern Living, 21 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Affix.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/affix. Accessed 3 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on affix

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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