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.
But don’t just zero in on the constellation; make sure to let your eyes scan the broad expanse of the sky because meteors can streak across any part of it. — Chantelle Lee, Time, 6 Aug. 2026 This New England expanse is excellent for stargazing, particularly along the 40-mile Cape Cod National Seashore. — Stephanie Vermillion, Travel + Leisure, 6 Aug. 2026 Separately, Shaman likened El Niño to a large burner on a stovetop, heating the atmosphere across a vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean and leading to more global heat extremes, particularly for next summer if current forecasts pan out. — Andrew Freedman, CNN Money, 4 Aug. 2026 Meanwhile, across the way in Capri is the world-famous beach club Fontellina, set upon a rocky expanse. — Elise Taylor, Vanity Fair, 4 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 10 Aug. 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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Nglish: Translation of expanse for Spanish Speakers

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