expanse-n; 3 Senses

Sense Number 1: the scope of influence of something

Commentary: EXPANSE[+state][+influence][+scope]
NOTE: refers to the scope or influence of a situation or endeavor

Examples:
They resent the global expanse of American culture and political power.
The firm's expanse into ready-to-wear clothing has been profitable.
An expanse of their oil explorations in Africa could be risky at this time.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1

Sense Number 2: measurement of surface area

Commentary: EXPANSE[+quantity][+measure][+area][+bounded]
NOTE: refers to a measurable, bounded surface area of something

Examples:
The expanse of the moth's wings is about 20 centimeters.
John measured the expanse of the living room to see whether the new area rug was too large for it.
The expanse of the child's hand fit completely inside Bob's larger one.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 2

Sense Number 3: broad stretch of terrain, sky or ocean

Commentary: EXPANSE[+location][+region][+geographical][-bounded]
NOTE: refers to a large, unbounded geographical region

Examples:
From the hilltop they could see the expanse of the prairie before them.
They wandered for days through the green expanse of the forest.
Living in the city, she missed the expanse of the starlit night sky.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 3