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broad

US //ˈbɹɔd// UK //bɹˈɔːd// broad
  1. 1 wide (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    very wide from one side to the other.

    having a great physical distance from side to side; wide.

    Example

    The river is very broad at this point, making it difficult to swim across.

    Example

    The hikers paused to admire the broad valley stretching out beneath them, dotted with small farmhouses and winding streams.
  2. 2 general (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    covering many things or focusing on the main ideas rather than small details.

    covering a wide scope or range of subjects; general rather than specific.

    Example

    The director gave us a broad outline of the plan for next year.

    Example

    The report provides a broad overview of the economic trends affecting the region without delving into specific local data.
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  1. 3 strong accent (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a very strong regional way of speaking.

    relating to a regional accent that is very noticeable and distinct.

    Example

    He spoke with a broad Scottish accent that was sometimes hard to understand.

    Example

    Despite living in London for twenty years, she retained a broad Yorkshire accent that immediately identified her origins.
  2. 4 obvious (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    very clear and easy to see or understand.

    plain, evident, or lacking in subtlety.

    Example

    There was a broad hint of sarcasm in her voice when she thanked him.

    Example

    The comedian relied on broad physical humor and exaggerated gestures to keep the young audience entertained.
  3. 5 woman (n.)
    C1 Advanced American English Slang Informal

    an old-fashioned and sometimes rude word for a woman.

    a slang term for a woman, now largely considered dated and potentially offensive.

    Example

    In those old black-and-white movies, the characters often used the word broad.

    Example

    The script was criticized for its use of the term broad, which many modern viewers find derogatory and sexist.

    Teacher's tip

    This sense is dated and often offensive in modern American English; learners should avoid using it.
  4. 6 floodlight (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Science

    a type of powerful light used in film or television studios.

    a type of floodlight used to provide even illumination over a wide area.

    Example

    The crew set up a broad to light the background of the scene.

    Example

    The cinematographer requested an additional broad to eliminate the harsh shadows cast by the primary key light.
Idioms7 entries

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