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Definition of widely

widely

/ˈwaɪdli/
wide · ly
Adjective:wide
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widely Lexical Profile

widely Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

By a large number of people, or over a large area or range; extensively.

Example

"Her research on renewable energy is widely cited by scientists around the world."

2

To a large degree; with a great difference or separation between things.

Example

"Opinions on the new urban development plan vary widely among local residents."

3

With a great physical breadth, opening, or spacing between parts.

Example

"She smiled widely when she saw her family waiting at the arrival gate."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for widely
Antonyms
View all antonyms for widely

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse the adverb forms 'wide' and 'widely': 'wide' describes physical space or complete openness (e.g., 'open wide', 'wide awake'), whereas 'widely' indicates broad distribution, general acceptance, or significant divergence (e.g., 'widely known', 'widely varying').

• Rhymes for widely

• Nearby Words

wide
wideband
widebody
widely
widemouthed
widen
wideness

Word Origin & Etymology

From Old English 'wīdlīce', formed from 'wīd' (wide, broad) and the adverbial suffix '-līce' (-ly).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Widely. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/widely
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