Narrow Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

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Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

Having a small size or extent; not broad or wide; limited in range or scope.

Examples

• The narrow path led to a secluded waterfall.
• The company’s narrow focus on a specific market limited its growth.

Synonyms

• Slender
• Constrained

Antonyms

• Wide
• Expansive

Etymology

From Old English “nære”, related to Old Norse “nær”, from Proto-Germanic “*nairo”, ultimately from Proto-Indo-European “*nes-“, meaning “pass” or “way”.

Usage Notes

Narrow often implies a lack of scope or breadth, whereas “limited” might imply a more arbitrary or artificial restriction.

Cultural References

In music, the term “narrow” is used to describe a specific range of musical notes or a limited vocal range.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

narrow-minded, narrow escape

Related Words or Phrases

• Slim
• Restrictive
• Focused

Collocations

• narrow down options
• narrow escape
• narrow path

Frequency of Use

Narrow is a relatively common adjective in modern English, particularly in formal or technical contexts.

Common Misspellings

nare, neara, narow