SPLAYS Synonyms: 26 Similar and Opposite Words

splays

verb

present tense third-person singular of splay

as in spreads

to cause to move outward and apart He sat with his legs splayed apart. She splayed her fingers to show off her manicure.

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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 splays Across the boat, a young guy with thin lips and a sweater tied around his shoulders leans back and splays his legs. —

Dalton Ross, Entertainment Weekly, 16 Jan. 2026 The Riverwalk in Fort Lauderdale splays out in full shade from the condo buildings and strips of golden sun. —

Eric Barton, Sun Sentinel, 4 Jan. 2026 The sneakers feature Altra’s signature FootShape design, which splays at the front to give your toes ample space for natural movement. —

Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 13 Nov. 2025

Recent Examples of Synonyms for splays

Verb

But the reality is that as automation spreads, skills like critical thinking, communication and emotional intelligence become more valuable.

— Catherine Thorbecke, Boston Herald, 18 Apr. 2026
Sargassum originates from the eastern Caribbean and spreads throughout Florida's East Coast and elsewhere.

— Doyle Rice, USA Today, 18 Apr. 2026