expanse

noun

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

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.
Monitoring China's 'Monster Ship' Russia's Disastrous Winter War on Finland Could Give Clues on Ukraine Endgame Despite its shared governance, seven nations have laid claim to parts of the icy expanse. Tommy Tuberville, Newsweek, 8 Jan. 2025 There on the round expanse of polished, inlaid pebble, dozens of men and women are mingling, spike heels clacking on the irregular surface, ordering drinks from tuxedoed bartenders, soaking up this dreamlike atmosphere. Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 8 Jan. 2025 Bear Glacier by stand-up paddleboard At the base of the largest glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park near Seward, a saltwater lagoon filled with icebergs licks at the 12-mile-long glacial expanse. Shoshi Parks, Smithsonian Magazine, 6 Jan. 2025 Beneath us is a shimmering expanse of untouched snow like powdered sugar, winking in the spring sun; the odd shadow; the frozen Fedaia Lake far below. Toby Skinner, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for expanse 

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1637, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of expanse was in 1637

Dictionary Entries Near expanse

Cite this Entry

“Expanse.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/expanse. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on expanse

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