Word
expandable
Phoneticsex·pand·able
US/ɪkˈspændəbəɫ/
UK/ɛkspˈændəbəl/
Definition
adj. able to get bigger or stretch out when you need more space. You use this to describe things like bags, tents, or even your mind.
adj. capable of being enlarged, stretched, or extended in size, volume, or scope. Often used to describe physical objects or abstract concepts like memory and data storage.
Examples
“The backpack is expandable so you can carry more gear.”
“The software uses an expandable memory system that allows users to add more storage as their needs grow.”
“While the initial design was compact, the architect specified expandable walls that could be moved to create a larger living space for the family as they grew.”
Examples
simple
“The backpack is expandable so you can carry more gear.”
contextual
“The software uses an expandable memory system that allows users to add more storage as their needs grow.”
complex
“While the initial design was compact, the architect specified expandable walls that could be moved to create a larger living space for the family as they grew.”
Real-World Examples
“The app has a desktop-friendly UI, tabs, network share support, expandable file trees, file previews, and more buttons.” Etymology
From expand + -able.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/expandable