expanse

noun

ex·​panse ik-ˈspan(t)s How to pronounce expanse (audio)
Synonyms of expanse
1
: firmament
2
: great extent of something spread out
an expanse of calm ocean

Synonyms of expanse

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Examples of expanse in a Sentence

The explorer gazed across the vast Arctic expanse. the great explorers who crossed the vast expanses of the seven seas in small ships
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
At first glance, Lençóis Maranhenses looks like an enormous white desert—but this vast expanse contains multitudes. — Caitlin Morton, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Sep. 2026 Pale stone, dramatically veined marble, warm wood and expanses of mirror are found throughout the flagship, with linear lighting integrated into ceilings and fixtures. — Miles Socha, Footwear News, 1 Sep. 2026 Curving terraces wrap around the structure, while large expanses of glass provide sweeping views over the landscape. — Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 1 Sep. 2026 Across the Sahel region, a vast arid expanse south of the Sahara Desert, militaries that grabbed power citing security failures have severed ties with longtime Western security allies and turned to Russia. — ABC News, 31 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for expanse

Word History

Etymology

New Latin expansum, from Latin, neuter of expansus, past participle of expandere

First Known Use

1667, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of expanse was in 1667

Rhymes for expanse

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Browse Nearby Words

expand on/upon
expanse
expansibility
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Cite this Entry

“Expanse.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/expanse. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

expanse

noun
ex·​panse ik-ˈspan(t)s How to pronounce expanse (audio)
: a wide space, area, or stretch
the vast expanse of the ocean
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