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 Theft of motor vehicle parts or accessories (subset of larceny) – The unlawful taking of any part or accessory affixed to the interior or exterior of a motor vehicle in a manner which would make the item an attachment of the vehicle or necessary for its operation. Baltimore Sun Staff, Baltimore Sun, 28 July 2025 Female mealybugs lay their eggs in fluffy white excretions affixed to the plant. Tim Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 27 July 2025 Despite serious damage to the home, a portrait of the esteemed writer remained affixed to the wall. Jillian Frankel, People.com, 15 July 2025 After gently capturing the gull in a pillowcase, Shaffer affixed a small, lightweight GPS tracking device to her tail, reports SFGate’s Amanda Bartlett. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 14 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for affix
Recent Examples of Synonyms for affix
attach
Verb
  • Pedro Pascal was originally attached to the project in a role ultimately taken by Josh Brolin, as a dad hell-bent on finding his missing son.
    Benjamin VanHoose, People.com, 7 Aug. 2025
  • Sharon, as well as her and Ozzy’s children, Jack and Aimee Osbourne, were attached to produce alongside Polygram’s Michele Anthony and David Blackman and Sony’s Andrea Giannetti.
    Andrew McGowan, Variety, 7 Aug. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Affix.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/affix. Accessed 22 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on affix

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!