# enlarge

> English word · Verb · IPA /ɪnˈlɑːd͡ʒ/ · frequency rank #22,362

## Definitions
1. To make (something) larger.
2. To grow larger.
3. To increase the capacity of; to expand; to give free scope or greater scope to; also, to dilate, as with joy, affection, etc.
4. To speak or write at length upon or on (some subject); expand; elaborate
5. To release; to set at large.
6. To get more astern or parallel with the vessel's course; to draw aft; said of the wind.
7. To extend the time allowed for compliance with (an order or rule).

## Etymology
From Middle English enlargen, from Old French enlargier, enlargir. By surface analysis, en- + large.

## Easily confused with
- **enlarged** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/enlarge-vs-enlarged)
- **engage** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/engage-vs-enlarge)

## Common misspellings (10)
`elnarge`, `enalrge`, `enlagre`, `enlareg`, `enlargge`, `enlarrge`, `enllarge`, `enlrage`, `ennlarge`, `nelarge`

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/enlarge