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 Simply affix the clip to the zipper on your suitcase or backpack and snap both sides together. Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 7 Sep. 2025 In Wisconsin, the secretary of state is responsible for recording acts of the governor, affixing the great seal, keeping custody of state records, laws, books and more. Hope Karnopp, jsonline.com, 4 Sep. 2025 During Christmas one year, when there was no money for a tree or decorations, mother and daughters taped leaves and pine cones to a paper cutout of a tree affixed to the living-room wall. Rebecca Mead, New Yorker, 3 Sep. 2025 Banners and signs must be hand-held and may not obstruct the view of other guests or PHX Arena advertising signage or be temporarily or permanently affixed to the building structure. Ed Masley, AZCentral.com, 2 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for affix
Recent Examples of Synonyms for affix
attach
Verb
  • The truck came to him just as a body, which Lord attached to the chassis of a Chevrolet S-10, his mother Michelle Lord said.
    Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 Sep. 2025
  • Oysters inspired the researchers because of their remarkable ability to attach to rocks, bridge pilings, or even each other in the harsh underwater environment.
    Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 13 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

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

More from Merriam-Webster on affix

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