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 The tool is called a coronagraph; in simple terms, a coronagraph is a device that can be affixed to a telescope and block out the light of a star the telescope is looking at to study features around that star. — Monisha Ravisetti, Space.com, 9 Sep. 2026 If the President gets his way, gold seals will be affixed to the outside of the finished building before the legal disputes are resolved. — Antonia Hitchens, New Yorker, 4 Sep. 2026 This sect of floor lamp marries lighting with elevated function thanks to a side table affixed to the base that can balance smaller knick knacks. — Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 2 Sep. 2026 There’s a second camera, pointing north, affixed to the side of a telephone pole. — Jack Crosbie, Rolling Stone, 31 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for affix
Recent Examples of Synonyms for affix
attach
Verb
  • That sister didn’t have a name or an actress attached until Netflix revealed this summer that Harris would be making her debut in the role on the currently airing 14th season of Gabby’s Dollhouse.
    — Jackie Strause, HollywoodReporter, 24 Sep. 2026
  • The hope now is to attempt to pass legislation during the lame duck session at the end of the year, perhaps by attaching it to a major funding bill, Schiff said in a call with reporters Thursday.
    — Ted Johnson, Deadline, 24 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Affix.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/affix. Accessed 26 Sep. 2026.

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