gamut

noun

ˈga-mət How to pronounce gamut (audio)
Definition of gamutnext
as in spectrum
the distance or extent between possible extremes the actress's work runs the gamut from goofy comedies to serious historical dramas

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How does the noun gamut differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of gamut are compass, orbit, range, scope, and sweep. While all these words mean "the extent that lies within the powers of something (as to cover or control)," gamut suggests a graduated series running from one possible extreme to another.

a performance that ran the gamut of emotions

When is it sensible to use compass instead of gamut?

The words compass and gamut are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, compass implies a sometimes limited extent of perception, knowledge, or activity.

your concerns lie beyond the narrow compass of this study

In what contexts can orbit take the place of gamut?

Although the words orbit and gamut have much in common, orbit suggests an often circumscribed range of activity or influence within which forces work toward accommodation.

within that restricted orbit they tried to effect social change

When might range be a better fit than gamut?

While in some cases nearly identical to gamut, range is a general term indicating the extent of one's perception or the extent of powers, capacities, or possibilities.

the entire range of human experience

Where would scope be a reasonable alternative to gamut?

While the synonyms scope and gamut are close in meaning, scope is applicable to an area of activity, predetermined and limited, but somewhat flexible.

as time went on, the scope of the investigation widened

When is sweep a more appropriate choice than gamut?

The meanings of sweep and gamut largely overlap; however, sweep suggests extent, often circular or arc-shaped, of motion or activity.

the book covers the entire sweep of criminal activity

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of gamut The collection is 14 pieces altogether, and runs the gamut from petite side tables to minimalist pendants. —Helena Madden, Martha Stewart, 14 May 2026 The narrative arc runs the gamut of human emotions from heartache and loss to resilience and courage, and finally to happiness and hope again. —Peter Larsen, Daily News, 13 May 2026 Both viewfinders are fantastic, but the a7R VI's wider color gamut and full-quality 120fps feed give it a win. —Jim Fisher, PC Magazine, 13 May 2026 The 61 artists in the show run the gamut from a Filipino online radio station to a Japanese ikebana foundation, though most participants are artists with traditional studio practices. —Alex Greenberger, ARTnews.com, 12 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for gamut
Recent Examples of Synonyms for gamut
  1. spectrum
  2. range
Noun
  • The limited range of religions represented at Rededicate 250 has drawn criticism from Mathewes and others, who say the event does not grasp the dynamic spectrum of faiths America has come to represent over its 250 years.
    — Nicole Fallert, USA Today, 16 May 2026
  • With the market opening up, producers began selling beef — once affordable across much of Argentina’s social spectrum — at prices closer to international levels.
    — Clara Preve, Fortune, 16 May 2026
Definition of spectrum
Noun
  • Analysts have repeatedly warned that if the war drags on and supply chains are disrupted for long enough, prices for gas and a range of other goods could continue to climb.
    — Wyatte Grantham-Philips, Chicago Tribune, 14 May 2026
  • Food and drink The breakfast buffet offers a regularly replenished range of fresh fruit, yogurt, breads, pastries, and juices.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 14 May 2026
Definition of range

Browse Nearby Words

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gamut
gamuts
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Cite this Entry

“Gamut.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/gamut. Accessed 20 May. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on gamut

Nglish: Translation of gamut for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about gamut

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