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wide

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adverb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word wide different from other adjectives like it?

The words broad and deep are common synonyms of wide. While all three words mean "having horizontal extent," wide is more common when units of measurement are mentioned, or when applied to unfilled space between limits.

rugs eight feet wide
a wide doorway

In what contexts can broad take the place of wide?

Although the words broad and wide have much in common, broad is preferred when full horizontal extent is considered.

broad shoulders

When is deep a more appropriate choice than wide?

In some situations, the words deep and wide are roughly equivalent. However, deep may indicate horizontal extent away from the observer or from a front or peripheral point.

a deep cupboard
deep woods

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 wide
Adjective
The two-piece set includes a long-sleeve, V-neck top and wide-leg bottoms with a drawcord and elastic waist that provides a relaxed, cozy fit. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 9 Nov. 2025 Style them with wide-leg jeans and a trench coat for an effortless street-style moment, or wear them with leggings and an oversized sweater for weekend errands. Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 9 Nov. 2025
Adverb
From the perspective of the bullet, Johanna Harwood’s heart was wide open. Carly Tagen-Dye, PEOPLE, 10 Nov. 2025 Henderson was wide open on a pattern to the right side of the end zone. Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 9 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for wide
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wide
Adjective
  • The Supreme Court granted the president broad immunity for official acts committed during his presidency.
    NPR, NPR, 11 Nov. 2025
  • So far this year, both Berkshire's Class A and Class B shares have risen nearly 10%, outperforming most defensive stocks, though lagging slightly behind the broader market.
    , CNBC, 11 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • The extensive archaeological study covered an area of over three-quarters of a mile.
    Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 8 Nov. 2025
  • His work has been so extensive, France’s minister of culture awarded him the prestigious Chevalier de l’ordre des Arts et des Lettres this year.
    Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 8 Nov. 2025
Adverb
  • This new chink in the armor of dark energy resulted from Lee and colleagues from Yonsei University discovering that Type Ia supernova may not be quite so standard after all.
    Robert Lea, Space.com, 6 Nov. 2025
  • Which for a big break was quite old, really.
    KiMi Robinson, USA Today, 6 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • The thick artificial foliage is pre-lit with warm white LED bulbs spaced through the entire length of the 10-foot piece.
    Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 5 Nov. 2025
  • With more than 38,000 gallons of fuel on board the cargo flight bound for Hawaii, the crash created a massive ball of fire – punctuated by smaller explosions from flammable material on the ground – and sent a towering plume of thick black smoke into the sky.
    Karina Tsui, CNN Money, 5 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • The Cavaliers ended the Heat’s season in dominant fashion, sweeping Miami in their first-round playoff series in April.
    Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 11 Nov. 2025
  • World Athletics sets the rules, handles drug testing and organizes the championships, among other duties, but still doesn’t have the power to make the more sweeping changes Lyles thinks track and field needs.
    Ian Servantes, Footwear News, 11 Nov. 2025
Adverb
  • Xi has also built up the PLA Rocket Force (PLARF), an elite branch overseeing China’s fast-expanding arsenal of nuclear and ballistic missiles.
    Tamara Qiblawi, CNN Money, 7 Nov. 2025
  • Leaders are being pressured to move faster, and do more with less, at the same time.
    Feon Ang, Fortune, 7 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Driving through deep water can also affect a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 8 Nov. 2025
  • Gjoshe had suffered a deep wound to his upper arm and had to wait until Tuesday for surgery.
    Philip Buckingham, New York Times, 8 Nov. 2025
Adverb
  • His pass over the top of the defense was perfectly placed, allowing Flagg to catch it and do the rest.
    Christian Clark, New York Times, 9 Nov. 2025
  • Her accessories truly made the look, including a pair of crystal drop earrings, bowed stilettos, and a velvet bag, which perfectly matched Prince Harry’s velvety tux.
    Christian Allaire, Vogue, 9 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Wide.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wide. Accessed 12 Nov. 2025.

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