far-flung

UK: ˌfɑːˈflʌŋ | US: ˌfɑːrˈflʌŋ

Definition

  1. adj. covering a large distance; widely distributed

  2. adj. remote or distant

Structure
far <distant>flung <thrown>
Etymology

The word "far-flung" combines "far" (Old English feorr, meaning "distant") and "flung" (past participle of "fling," from Old Norse flengja, meaning "to throw"). The compound suggests something "thrown far away," metaphorically describing things widely scattered or remote. First recorded in the late 19th century, it originally described empires or territories spanning vast distances, later generalized to any expansive or distant concept.

Examples

  1. The company has far-flung offices across five continents.

  2. Explorers documented far-flung cultures unknown to Europeans.

  3. Her far-flung travels inspired her novel.

  4. The internet connects people in even the most far-flung villages.

  5. The scientist studied far-flung galaxies using advanced telescopes.