widely
- 1Among or by many people; commonly, generally, or to a great degree.
The theory is widely accepted among researchers in the field.
Her novels are widely read across the country and beyond.
UsageMost often before a past participle: widely used, widely known, widely accepted.
Similargenerally, commonly, broadly, universally, greatly
- 2In a wide manner, or across a large, extended area.
Settlers were scattered widely across the open plains.
The two trails diverge widely once you pass the old bridge.
UsageFor opening fully, use wide: open wide (not
incorrect: open widely). Widely is for spreading over space: widely spaced, scattered widely.Similarbroadly, extensively
Oppositenarrowly
Practice
Can you tell the meanings of widely apart? Answer 2 quick questions from this page, or write your own sentence and AI will check it.
Origin
From Middle English wijdly, equivalent to "wide" plus the suffix "-ly".
Checked 7 Nov 2026 · 1 fact
- Widely derives from Middle English wijdly and is equivalent to wide plus the suffix -ly. en.wiktionary.org