Dictionary entry

Aggrandize

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Ag″gran‐dize (�), v. t. [imp. & p. p.Aggrandized (�); p. pr. & vb. n.Aggrandizing (�).] [F. agrandir; à (L. ad) + grandir to increase, L. grandire, fr. grandis great. See Grand, and cf. Finish.] 1. To make great; to enlarge; to increase; as, to aggrandize our conceptions, authority, distress.

2. To make great or greater in power, rank, honor, or wealth; — applied to persons, countries, etc.

His scheme for aggrandizing his son.

Prescott.

3. To make appear great or greater; to exalt. Lamb.

Syn. — To augment; exalt; promote; advance.