Broadener

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. An entity or tool that expands dimensions or enhances width
2. A mechanism that increases the range or variety of something, often improving its capacity
3. Something designed to widen or enlarge, providing greater breadth or scope in usage or application

Etymology: "Broadener" is a plain formation: the verb "broaden" with the agent suffix "-er" attached, giving a noun for something that broadens. "Broaden" itself comes from "broad" with the verb-forming suffix "-en," which English has used since Old English for turning an adjective into a verb meaning to make it more of that quality, as in "lengthen," "harden," and "sharpen." The suffix "-er" does the same job it does in "baker," "teacher," or "sweeper," turning a verb into a noun for the thing or person doing the action. So a broadener is anything that performs the act of broadening, whether a physical device or an abstract factor that widens a field of use or application. The word is transparent in form, so its meaning follows directly from its parts.

Synonyms: expander, enlarger, widening agent, stretcher, amplifier