Search Dictionary
Definition of amplify

amplify

/ˈæm.plɪ.faɪ/
am · pli · fy

Adjective:amplified
•
Past Simple:amplified
•
Past Participle:amplified
•
Present Participle:amplifying
JUMP TO:

amplify Lexical Profile

amplify Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To make an effect, emotion, quality, or situation more intense, marked, or widespread.

Example

"Social media algorithms often amplify polarizing opinions while burying moderate discussions."


2

To increase the volume of sound or the strength of an electrical signal, especially by using an electronic amplifier.

Example

"The sound technician used a specialized microphone to amplify the acoustic guitar across the concert hall."


3

To enlarge upon or add further detail to a statement, story, or argument in order to make it clearer or more complete.

Example

"In the second chapter, the historian attempts to amplify her initial thesis with newly discovered archival letters."


4

To make multiple copies of a specific gene or DNA sequence (in genetics and molecular biology).

Example

"The researchers used the polymerase chain reaction to amplify the viral DNA segment for laboratory analysis."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for amplify
Antonyms
View all antonyms for amplify

• Rhymes for amplify

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 15th century from Old French amplifier, which derives from Latin amplificare ('to enlarge or expand'), combining amplus ('large, spacious') and facere ('to make').

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Amplify. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/amplify
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Dictionary & Reference
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.