expansion

US /ɪkˈspæn.ʃən/
UK /ɪkˈspæn.ʃən/
"expansion" picture
1.

the action of becoming larger or more extensive

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•
The rapid expansion of the universe is a key concept in cosmology.
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The company announced a major expansion into new markets.
:
enlargementgrowthincreasedevelopmentspread
:
contractionreductionshrinkage
2.

an increase in the volume of a substance when heated

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Thermal expansion is why gaps are left in bridge construction.
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The expansion of water when it freezes can burst pipes.
:
dilationswellinginflation
:
expansive