augment

Definition of augmentnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb augment contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of augment are enlarge, increase, and multiply. While all these words mean "to make or become greater," augment implies addition to what is already well grown or well developed.

the inheritance augmented his fortune

When is it sensible to use enlarge instead of augment?

The words enlarge and augment can be used in similar contexts, but enlarge implies expansion or extension that makes greater in size or capacity.

enlarged the kitchen

When might increase be a better fit than augment?

In some situations, the words increase and augment are roughly equivalent. However, increase used intransitively implies progressive growth in size, amount, or intensity; used transitively it may imply simple not necessarily progressive addition.

his waistline increased with age
increased her landholdings

Where would multiply be a reasonable alternative to augment?

While in some cases nearly identical to augment, multiply implies increase in number by natural generation or by indefinite repetition of a process.

with each attempt the problems multiplied

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 augment This is the first of a new type of rideshare program flying to that orbit that augments SpaceX’s Transporter program that flies to SSO. Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 19 Apr. 2026 The Royals cannot merely suggest downtown baseball will revitalize, energize or augment the city. Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 17 Apr. 2026 Eventually, though, AI will be presented as something acting students could use to augment their craft and careers. Steven Zeitchik, HollywoodReporter, 16 Apr. 2026 Any presence on the interior that augments the pass rush would be welcome, no matter the primary position. Paul Dehner Jr, New York Times, 15 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for augment
Recent Examples of Synonyms for augment
Verb
  • Water testing has been temporarily increased to once a month at the Oceanside Harbor after someone reported seeing a suspicious liquid dumped from a boat.
    Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Apr. 2026
  • This sprawling, unchecked population growth just increases water demand.
    DP Opinion, Denver Post, 25 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • The Moon moves through your 9th House of Perspective, expanding how your ideas are received.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 28 Apr. 2026
  • At Fremantle, Katrosar built and expanded a global advertising business across streaming, broadcast, social and branded partnerships.
    Lynette Rice, Deadline, 27 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • As the climate crisis accelerates and urban populations boom, wildfires across the world are becoming larger, burning hotter, and harder to tackle, experts told CNN.
    Stefano Pozzebon, CNN Money, 26 Apr. 2026
  • Something else must be accelerating these particles, but scientists don’t yet know what.
    Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 26 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Denver officials want to boost the city’s boogie businesses.
    Elliott Wenzler, Denver Post, 25 Apr. 2026
  • While the Giants addressed wide receiver, a big missing piece remains in boosting the defensive tackle spot.
    Charlotte Carroll, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Augment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/augment. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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