Expanding

ex·pand  (k-spnd)

v. ex·pand·ed, ex·pand·ing, ex·pands

v.tr.

1. To increase the size, volume, quantity, or scope of; enlarge: expanded her store by adding a second room. See Synonyms at increase.

2. To express at length or in detail; enlarge on: expanded his remarks afterward.

3. To open (something) up or out; spread out: The bird expanded its wings and flew off.

4. Mathematics To write (a quantity) as a sum of terms in an extended form.

v.intr.

1. To become greater in size, volume, quantity, or scope: Air expands when heated. This critic's influence is expanding.

2. To speak or write at length or in detail: expand on a favorite topic.

3. To open up or out; unfold: The chair expands to form a day bed.

4. To feel expansive.

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[Middle English expanden, to spread out, from Latin expandere : ex-, ex- + pandere, to spread; see pet- in Indo-European roots.]

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ex·panda·ble adj.

ex·pander n.