Broaden
/ˈbrɔː.dən/noun
To make or become wider, larger, or more inclusive.
Did you know?Broaden is a later English formation from broad + -en, and its deep root is the same ancient source behind words for breadth, spreading, and even the idea of wide-open space.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bʰerǵʰ-
“to be high, broad, or prominent”
Old English
Old English
brād
“broad, wide”
Old English
Old English
-en
“to make or become”
Middle English
English
broaden
“to make wider or more expansive”
Modern English
English
broaden
“to make or become wider, larger, or more inclusive”
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