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.
The lasting scars on the Gaza landscape are plain to see in the more than 360,000 structures − homes, schools, hospitals, mosques and other buildings − that lie in a vast expanse of toxic rubble. Stephen J. Beard, USA TODAY, 11 Feb. 2025 This meant large expanses of glass that foster easy indoor-outdoor living and innovative (and sometimes flamboyant) roof designs. Emma Reynolds, Robb Report, 5 Feb. 2025 This might sound like a world apart from the flat expanses of South Florida, where the terrain typically alternates between swamp and suburban sprawl. Nicolas Rivero, Miami Herald, 26 Jan. 2025 That glittering expanse would be our end-of-trip retreat for the next two nights. Sara Lieberman, Travel + Leisure, 21 Jan. 2025 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 20 Feb. 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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