augment

Definition of augmentnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb augment contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of augment are enlarge, increase, and multiply. While all these words mean "to make or become greater," augment implies addition to what is already well grown or well developed.

the inheritance augmented his fortune

When is it sensible to use enlarge instead of augment?

The words enlarge and augment can be used in similar contexts, but enlarge implies expansion or extension that makes greater in size or capacity.

enlarged the kitchen

When might increase be a better fit than augment?

In some situations, the words increase and augment are roughly equivalent. However, increase used intransitively implies progressive growth in size, amount, or intensity; used transitively it may imply simple not necessarily progressive addition.

his waistline increased with age
increased her landholdings

Where would multiply be a reasonable alternative to augment?

While in some cases nearly identical to augment, multiply implies increase in number by natural generation or by indefinite repetition of a process.

with each attempt the problems multiplied

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 augment In volleyball, for instance, Vickers sought to augment players’ quiet eyes to boost their service reception and passing. Big Think, 29 Jan. 2026 For me, folklore started right back at school, when our junior headmaster used to sit and tell us tall colorful tales, oral Cumbrian legends and ghost stories, which could be augmented and added to in the telling. Literary Hub, 28 Jan. 2026 Preservation was part of the conversation when the two connected, but both were also focused on revitalization and augmenting the structure’s old-world charms with something fresh and modern. Lina Lecaro, Los Angeles Times, 28 Jan. 2026 As for accessories, the royal wore a navy headband to augment her monochrome attire and carried a small navy bag to boot. Julia Teti, Footwear News, 27 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for augment
Recent Examples of Synonyms for augment
Verb
  • Research shows more adults in their 20s, 30s and 40s are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer, with incidence increasing over the last three decades.
    Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 31 Jan. 2026
  • When applied to the scalp, minoxidil increases blood flow and stimulates your hair follicles to regrow hair.
    Caroline C. Boyle, USA Today, 31 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Jennie headlined Coachella as a solo artist while expanding her fashion ventures.
    Hannah Abraham, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
  • In recent years, auction houses have expanded their categories as luxury goods and collectibles have helped buoy their sales.
    Jacqui Palumbo, CNN Money, 27 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • By combining a strong regulatory framework with a dense airport ecosystem, the authority aims to accelerate the testing and deployment of advanced aviation technologies.
    Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 2 Feb. 2026
  • The Dark Sky Lounge, an add-on, is a 30-minute sound and vibration-based therapy that is meant to accelerate muscle recovery and bring you into a deep state of relaxation—a perfect pre-treatment experience.
    David Duran, Condé Nast Traveler, 31 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Beijing has spent decades growing its trade ties and bankrolling projects in the region, to boost transportation links and cut energy costs – cementing its own influence along the way.
    Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 31 Jan. 2026
  • But an association with a sitting President can furnish a valuable credibility boost.
    David D. Kirkpatrick, New Yorker, 31 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Augment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/augment. Accessed 3 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on augment

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