rhizoverbBeta
DictionarywidePhysical breadth
adjective / adverb

wide

WYDE/waɪd/

Extending a large distance from side to side.

Both banks are clearly visible across the wide river.

A broad river seen from a slightly elevated angle, with both banks clearly visible and widely separated, emphasizing its great side-to-side distance.
Etymology
wideOld Englishwide, vast, long

Old English wīd already described great extent, including vastness, length, and even time. The selected meaning preserves its spatial use for a large distance from side to side.

In context

U of M AIS Detectors1:10
the width of the leaves. So the leaves are up to about 3/4 of an inch wide
Identification Tips: Reed Canary Grass (Phalaris arundinacea)

More examples

  • We need a wider table for the large serving dishes.
  • The doorway is three feet wide.
  • She opens the gate wide to let the truck through.

Forms

wide · wider · widest

width noun — The distance from side to side.

widen verb — To make or become broader across.

Similar words

broad
Often interchangeable, especially for surfaces, shoulders, or open areas.
expansive
Describes a large overall area, not specifically side-to-side distance.