extensive

adjective

ex·​ten·​sive ik-ˈsten(t)-siv How to pronounce extensive (audio)
Synonyms of extensivenext
1
: having wide or considerable extent
extensive reading
2
3
: of, relating to, or constituting farming in which large areas of land are utilized with minimum outlay and labor
extensively adverb
extensiveness noun

Examples of extensive in a Sentence

The storm caused extensive damage. an extensive series of tests
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Models require extensive training to enable them to identify everyday objects to interact with, which means that simple tasks like picking up fruit can be challenging in robotics. Arjun Kharpal, CNBC, 14 Feb. 2026 Coastal Fish also offers some of the best seafood around, along with an extensive wine list and cocktail menu. Usa Today Network, USA Today, 13 Feb. 2026 The Silk Road was an extensive network of trade routes and within that Kyrgyzstan was an important crossroads. Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 13 Feb. 2026 Putting together the lesson was not easy, Hebel said, noting the extensive coordination that was required between the different community partners and Guinness World Records. Carolyn Stein, Chicago Tribune, 13 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for extensive

Word History

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of extensive was in 1605

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Cite this Entry

“Extensive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/extensive. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

extensive

adjective
ex·​ten·​sive ik-ˈsten(t)-siv How to pronounce extensive (audio)
: having wide or large extent
extensively adverb
extensiveness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on extensive

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