Definition of "expand" in English

verb

1. (transitive) To change (something) from a smaller form or size to a larger one; to spread out or lay open.

   • You can expand this compact umbrella to cover a large table.

2. (transitive) To increase the extent, number, volume or scope of (something).

   • A flower expands its leaves.

3. (transitive) To express (something) at length and/or in detail.

4. (transitive, algebra) To rewrite (an expression) as a longer, yet equivalent, sum of terms.

   • Use the binomial theorem to expand #123;(x#43;1)#125;⁴.

5. (intransitive, algebra, of an expression) To become, by rewriting, a longer, yet equivalent, sum of terms.

   • The expression #123;(x#43;1)#125;⁴ expands to x⁴#43;4x³#43;6x²#43;4x#43;1.

6. (transitive, arithmetic) To multiply both the numerator and the denominator of a fraction by the same (non-zero) number (which yields a fraction of equal value).

   • Expanding 4#47;7 by 3 gives 12#47;21.

7. (intransitive) To change or grow from smaller to larger in form, number, or size.

   • Many materials expand when heated.
   • This compact umbrella expands to cover a large table.

8. (intransitive) To increase in extent, number, volume or scope.

9. (intransitive) To speak or write at length or in detail.

   • He expanded on his plans for the business.

10. (intransitive) To feel generous or optimistic.

11. (transitive, computing) In a hierarchical list (such as a directory tree or table of contents), to show the subentries of (an entry).