gradually-expanded
|grad-u-al-ly-ex-pand-ed|
B2
/ˈɡrædʒuəli ɪkˈspændɪd/
(expand)
increase in size
Etymology
Etymology Information
'expand' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'expandere,' where 'ex-' meant 'out' and 'pandere' meant 'to spread.'
Historical Evolution
'expandere' transformed into the French word 'expandre,' and eventually became the modern English word 'expand' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to spread out,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to increase in size or scope.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
increased in size or scope in a slow and steady manner.
The company's influence gradually-expanded over the years.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/07/12 16:17