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 Advertisement Our phones, in other words, can augment our memories. Rainesford Stauffer, Time, 24 July 2026 The two panels will be installed on Orion's exterior, and will augment the spacecraft's existing communications systems. Josh Dinner, Space.com, 21 July 2026 Technology that augments humans spreads prosperity, but technology built to imitate and substitute for them concentrates it. Reed Albergotti, semafor.com, 21 July 2026 Quicksand’s trademark edge and groove are augmented by a sonic expansion that is well worth falling into. Tiffany Kelly, Entertainment Weekly, 17 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for augment
Recent Examples of Synonyms for augment
Verb
  • The airport says arrivals to Denver are also delayed an average of 15 minutes and increasing due to the weather.
    Christa Swanson, CBS News, 1 Aug. 2026
  • Earlier this year, Republicans had hoped to campaign on falling rates and a bipartisan bill to increase home construction to help defend their House and Senate majorities.
    ABC News, ABC News, 1 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • In the mid-1960s, the festival expanded from an intimate get-together among church members to a cultural exchange for the greater Sacramento community.
    Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 1 Aug. 2026
  • San Gregorio State Beach is now roughly twice its size after expanding into the formerly private ranch, San Gregorio Ranch.
    Sooji Nam, CBS News, 1 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • While PennDOT already has created over 30 wildlife crossings, the establishment of the new cohesive group of state agency stakeholders is likely to accelerate building the safe animal passageways and reverse the high collision rate with motorists.
    Noël Fletcher, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
  • Campbell said some people use BPC-157 in combination with another peptide known as TB-500 to accelerate healing.
    Jacqueline Howard, CNN Money, 31 July 2026
Verb
  • In May 2025, TSA and ICE agreed to boost information sharing between the two agencies, according to a memo disclosed this week by the group American Oversight.
    Adam Thompson, CBS News, 31 July 2026
  • The debate is a useful distraction, Lamar said, from real conversations over how to boost public safety.
    ABC News, ABC News, 31 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Augment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/augment. Accessed 2 Aug. 2026.

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