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

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Rhymes with EXTENSION

dimension, high-tension, Vincentian