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 Guards who monitor comings and goings at the high school were augmented by local sheriff’s deputies. Andy Rose, CNN Money, 14 Mar. 2026 Finally, the defanging of the Iranian menace would also significantly augment the collective strength and abilities of the West with respect to China, which relies heavily on Iranian oil. Michael M. Rosen, The Washington Examiner, 13 Mar. 2026 Nielsen’s report captures an analysis of its national TV panel data, augmented by streaming platform ratings, from September 29 to December 28 of last year. Dade Hayes, Deadline, 12 Mar. 2026 The Friends raise money to augment the library’s programming and materials budgets. Elizabeth Marie Himchak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for augment
Recent Examples of Synonyms for augment
Verb
  • This kind of early-season heat can also increase fire weather concerns across parts of Colorado, especially when warm temperatures combine with dry air and gusty winds.
    Joe Ruch, CBS News, 15 Mar. 2026
  • But the Denver offense, which increased the pressure in the final minutes of the match, couldn’t find the back of the net again.
    Kyle Newman, Denver Post, 15 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Situationist is also expanding its team, with a new office above the new store.
    Lucy Maguire, Vogue, 10 Mar. 2026
  • Republican lawmakers are opposed to expanding health care to undocumented immigrants, and particularly ready to attack Democrat efforts to raise new revenues to do so.
    Andrew Graham March 9, Sacbee.com, 10 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Military robot surge Foundation is accelerating the development of military-capable humanoid robots, with plans to manufacture up to 50,000 units by the end of 2027.
    Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 16 Mar. 2026
  • This is especially important after age 65, which is when muscle loss accelerates, Zinn says.
    Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 15 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Messenger Mercury conjoins ambitious Mars in your 3rd House of Communication, boosting errands and sibling talks, as well as putting more focus on practical, timely conversations.
    Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 15 Mar. 2026
  • Noem, who’d been willing to do virtually anything in the role to boost her standing, was a product of the White House agenda, never a shaper of it.
    Jonathan Blitzer, New Yorker, 15 Mar. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Augment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/augment. Accessed 16 Mar. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on augment

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!

More from Merriam-Webster