amplify

[am-pluh-fahy]

verb (used with object)

amplified, amplifying 

1. to make larger, greater, or stronger; enlarge; extend.

   Synonyms: heighten, intensify, increase
   Antonyms: reduce, contract

2. to expand in stating or describing, as by details or illustrations; clarify by expanding.

   Synonyms: develop, broaden, widen
   Antonyms: abridge, condense

3. Electricity.,  to increase the amplitude of; cause amplification in.

4. Archaic.,  to exaggerate.

verb (used without object)

amplified, amplifying 

1. to discourse at length; expatiate or expand one's remarks, speech, etc. (usually followed byon ).

   The preacher amplified on the theme of brotherly love.

amplify

/ ˈæmplɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. (tr) to increase in size, extent, effect, etc, as by the addition of extra material; augment; enlarge; expand

2. electronics to produce amplification of (electrical signals); increase the amplitude of (signals)

3. (tr) to exaggerate

4. (intr) to expand or enlarge a speech, narrative, etc

Other Word Forms

• amplifiable adjective
• overamplify verb
• unamplifiable adjective
• unamplified adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of amplify¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English amplifyen, from Middle French amplifier, from Latin amplificāre “to increase, augment”; equivalent to ample + -ify

Word History and Origins

Origin of amplify¹

C15: from Old French amplifier, ultimately from Latin amplificāre to enlarge, from amplus spacious + facere to make

Example Sentences

Now, as his own body language and absences trigger doubt, the groundwork laid by his brutal attacks on the former president is amplifying the fallout.

From Salon

Every time leaders make and amplify these false and dangerous connections, they add fuel to the fire of harassment, discrimination and violence faced by trans communities.

From Salon

Beck’s offense is expected to spread the field with an up-tempo attack, amplifying the challenge facing the Bruins.

From Los Angeles Times

Lodging and travel costs have soared, amplifying concerns that the showcase has become a festival largely for the well-off.

From Los Angeles Times

The involvement of other militias alongside the RSF, especially the powerful SPLM-N, has intensified the violence and amplified a severe humanitarian crisis, making it nearly impossible for aid groups to send in supplies.

From BBC

Related Words

• augment 
• deepen 
• exaggerate 
• heighten 
• intensify 
• magnify 
• strengthen