Augment

/ɔːɡˈmɛnt/intermediateverb

Weekend library shifts, sharper sequel villains, and showroom AR demos all do the same thing this verb names: adding onto a base to make it greater.

Learn This Word

Meaning

To increase in size.

Memory trick

AUGMENT shares AUG with august: both mean made greater.

Examples

1

Grants augmented the fund.

2

Weekend shifts at the library augmented her pocket money enough for the trip.

3

The sequel augmented the original with a sharper villain and better songs.

Synonyms

increaseboostsupplementenhanceamplifyexpandtop up

Antonyms

reducediminishdepletecurtaillessen

Etymology

From Latin augere "to increase," the same root as august and auction. Growth added onto what exists.

Usage Notes

Formal upgrade verb: augment income, augment reality, augment forces. Implies addition to a base, not replacement.

Real-life contexts

1

Use at work: "Freelancing augments my stipend."

2

Use in tech: "AR augments the showroom visit."

3

Use in study: "Diagrams augment your answers."

Common Mistakes

Augment adds to something existing; for creating growth from nothing use generate. Stress aug-MENT for the verb.

Augment: Definition, How to Use It & Flashcards | WordFlippin