extension

ex·ten·sion

noun \ik-ˈsten(t)-shən\

Definition of EXTENSION

1

a : the action of extending : state of being extended

b : an enlargement in scope or operation <tools are extensions of human hands>

2

a : the total range over which something extends : compass

b : denotation 4

3

a : the stretching of a fractured or dislocated limb so as to restore it to its natural position

b : an unbending movement around a joint in a limb (as the knee or elbow) that increases the angle between the bones of the limb at the joint — compare flexion 4a

4

: a property whereby something occupies space

5

: an increase in length of time; specifically : an increase in time allowed under agreement or concession

6

: a program that geographically extends the educational resources of an institution by special arrangements (as correspondence courses) to persons otherwise unable to take advantage of such resources

7

a : a part constituting an addition

b : a section or line segment forming an additional length

c : an extra telephone connected to the principal line

d : a length of natural or synthetic hair that is worn attached to one's natural hair

e : a series of usually three or four characters following a dot at the end of the name of a computer file that specifies the file's format or purpose

8

: a mathematical set (as a field or group) that includes a given and similar set as a subset

Examples of EXTENSION

1. extension of the patient's life
2. He's asking for a contract extension.
3. Make sure that the muscles get the proper amount of extension.
4. I missed the deadline but was granted an extension.

Origin of EXTENSION

Middle English, from Late Latin extension-, extensio, from Latin extendere

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to EXTENSION

Synonyms

drawing out, elongation, lengthening, prolongation, prolonging, stretching

Antonyms

abbreviation, abridgment (or abridgement), curtailment, cutback, shortening

Related Words

arm, ell, wing

Rhymes with EXTENSION

dimension, high-tension, Vincentian

ex·ten·sion

noun \ik-ˈsten-chən\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of EXTENSION

1

: the stretching of a fractured or dislocated limb so as to restore it to its natural position

2

: an unbending movement around a joint in a limb (as the knee or elbow) that increases the angle between the bones of the limb at the joint—compare flexion 1