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 Across Green-Wood, stone slabs—vault covers—lie flat on the ground, often affixed with patinaed rings, for hoisting. Paige Williams, New Yorker, 2 June 2025 No human could survive in the water at the depths sperm whales can plunge, so the camera would have to be attached directly to a whale via suction cups, and affixed to its back from a long pole held over the bow of the production team’s boat. Christian Blauvelt, IndieWire, 22 May 2025 The traditional ceremony, where the final steel beam with an evergreen tree affixed to it is placed on the structure, marks a milestone in the construction process. Angela Palermo, Idaho Statesman, 29 May 2025 David Geffen’s name is affixed to concert halls, medical programs and drama schools. Jesse McKinley, New York Times, 22 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for affix
Recent Examples of Synonyms for affix
attach
Verb
  • Behind a robust plastic screen stands the 640kg (1,400lb) machine that amounts to a mechanical arm with a foot last and boot attached.
    Liam Tharme, New York Times, 8 June 2025
  • When cars were first introduced, some had fake horse heads attached to the front to make passengers feel more comfortable.
    Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 8 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Affix.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/affix. Accessed 18 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on affix

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