augment

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 This means installing lighting at multiple levels including ceiling lights, table and floor lamps, and wall sconces to augment any natural light. Hallie Milstein, Southern Living, 14 June 2025 Among the plans are having existing foot patrol officers augment the patrol division to increase response times and enhance visibility in business districts. Harry Harris, Mercury News, 13 June 2025 For lower-mass stars, which shine brightest in infrared, Gaia’s observations were augmented by data from NASA’s Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer and the Spitzer Space Telescope. Phil Plait, Scientific American, 12 June 2025 Although their instrumental chops also strengthened, Wilson soon augmented the Boys with session musicians. Barry Walters, Billboard, 11 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for augment
Recent Examples of Synonyms for augment
Verb
  • Speakers said recent actions by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials had provoked increasing concern over the safety of local residents attending the Club World Cup games this summer at Hard Rock Stadium.
    CD Goette-Luciak, Miami Herald, 1 July 2025
  • The legislation is the signature priority of President Donald Trump, extending the 2017 tax cuts, adding billions to border security and increasing defense spending.
    Ted Johnson, Deadline, 1 July 2025
Verb
  • However, as has been the case with other annual shopping events, retailers expanded the promotional period to start May 13, a week earlier than in 2024, before ending June 18.
    Bernice Ooi, CNBC, 20 June 2025
  • Organizers are also expanding the slate of live podcasts with Johnny Manziel’s Glory Daze and Jeff Teague’s 520 Podcast set to take the stage, for example.
    Eric Jackson, Sportico.com, 20 June 2025
Verb
  • India’s space ambitions have accelerated under Modi, who was elected to a third term last June and has tried to assert India’s place on the global stage.
    Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 26 June 2025
  • Throughout the 1960s, New York City’s financial sector boomed, yet simultaneously, poverty rates soared, deindustrialization accelerated, and housing costs skyrocketed.
    Daniel Wortel-London, New York Daily News, 26 June 2025
Verb
  • While most Mets fans likely want to see the team make some huge moves this season, a trade for McMahon might be the crucial deal that boosts the lineup over the dog days of summer.
    Zach Pressnell, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 June 2025
  • Another area of potential concern is companies that are buying bitcoin in an attempt to boost their own stock prices.
    Jesse Pound, CNBC, 30 June 2025
Verb
  • Thoughtful packaging enhances brand perception, encourages repeat purchases and boosts word-of-mouth.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025
  • Some things in life are mood enhancing and for me one of those things are narrowing down the products that will make it in my suitcase for my summer excursions.
    Samantha Mims, Essence, 23 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Augment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/augment. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

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