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 Brito, who had been shut down last summer with a flexor tendon issue and then quickly shut down with the same issue this spring, underwent a dual procedure in which the flexor tendon was repaired and there was a brace affixed to his UCL as a sort of revision of his 2017 Tommy John surgery. Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 May 2025 Then, rope fixers must affix the safety lines from Camp II at 21,000 feet all the way to the top. Ben Ayers, Outside Online, 9 May 2025 But in recent weeks, sometime after March, a series of ornate gold medallions—originally affixed to the ceiling cornice—have started to appear elsewhere in the room, as if the unique piece of decor were multiplying itself. Jesus Mesa, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 May 2025 That’s because the standard EEG typically uses 21 of them, affixed to the scalp in strategic positions to capture activity from various brain regions. New Atlas, 5 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for affix
Recent Examples of Synonyms for affix
attach
Verb
  • The creator replaced it with a nearly identical bronze statue shortly after, but moved its location to private property nearby and attached it to concrete and metal rods.
    Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 16 May 2025
  • The attorney will take point dealing with all the legalities attached to the accident and will deal directly with the other driver’s insurance.
    LyssaNoel Frater, USA Today, 16 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Affix.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/affix. Accessed 25 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on affix

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