widely

adverb

wide·​ly ˈwīd-lē How to pronounce widely (audio)
Synonyms of widelynext
1
: over or through a wide area
has traveled widely
2
: to a great extent
departed widely from the previous edition
3
: by or among a large well-dispersed group of people
a widely known political figure
4
: over a broad range
… persons with widely fluctuating incomes.Current Biography

Examples of widely in a Sentence

Their products are widely available. a widely known political figure The books are widely read by adults as well as children.
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.
Pharmacies are widely available and often don’t require appointments. Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 15 May 2026 China’s shifts to prioritize AI and high-tech industries have sparked a boom in some sectors, but the gains have yet to spread widely enough to make up for the jobs lost over the past decade. David Goldman, CNN Money, 14 May 2026 France’s universal healthcare system is widely regarded as comprehensive, accessible, and affordable for residents, including expats. Taryn White, Travel + Leisure, 14 May 2026 Sturm’s skincare line, Molecular Cosmetics, includes products like the Super Anti-Aging Serum, Hyaluronic Ampoules and Glow Drops, which are widely used by her celebrity clients. Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 14 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for widely

Word History

First Known Use

1579, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of widely was in 1579

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Cite this Entry

“Widely.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/widely. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

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