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 Today, algorithms can augment human control of the battlefield. Eric Schmidt, Foreign Affairs, 12 Aug. 2025 The first two certification flights used two solid rocket boosters to augment the power of its two BE-4 engines. Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 12 Aug. 2025 Leaders in this space are also looking to facilitate flight modifications via enhanced aerodynamics and real-time diagnostics—augmented by smart sensors. Robert Lane, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2025 Advertisement When a crisis occurs, instead of setting up tent cities with food, education, healthcare, sanitation, and other necessary services, refugees are housed within existing communities, which have their infrastructure and facilities augmented by donor funding. Charlie Campbell, Time, 1 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for augment
Recent Examples of Synonyms for augment
Verb
  • During the month of its release, the number of articles about KPop Demon Hunters increased nearly four-fold to 1,394.
    Caroline Reid, Forbes.com, 19 Aug. 2025
  • That higher load increases energy expenditure, respiration and heart rate, which is good for heart health and can improve endurance.
    Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 18 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • Currently, Ryan is expanding his expertise by working toward becoming a licensed nutritionist, adding a well-rounded dimension to his fitness programs.
    William Jones, USA Today, 20 Aug. 2025
  • That means leaning in on our efforts to expand voter education and outreach, particularly in underserved communities.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 19 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • Driving impressions The Sportage hybrid accelerates well from a standstill.
    Mark Phelan, Freep.com, 26 Aug. 2025
  • From Crisis to Control: The Three Phases of Crypto Tax Strategy By 2017, crypto still wasn’t mainstream, but adoption was accelerating.
    Patrick Camuso, Forbes.com, 25 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • Last year’s results were boosted by a one-time gain of $0.14 per share from the sale of a facility, according to the earnings call.
    Diana Leyva, The Tennessean, 30 Aug. 2025
  • That helps boost his confidence, as Darlington hosts the playoff opener this weekend.
    Joseph Wolkin, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • His ongoing mission is to elevate public safety and rescue operations, using technology to enhance how communities respond to the needs of their most vulnerable citizens.
    Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 23 Aug. 2025
  • What steps to follow when driving in the rain? Switch on headlights - Even during daylight hours, using headlights can enhance visibility and signal your presence to other drivers.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 23 Aug. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Augment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/augment. Accessed 1 Sep. 2025.

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!