Main Entry: ¹stretch

Pronunciation: \ˈstrech\

Function: verb

Etymology: Middle English strecchen, from Old English streccan; akin to Old High German strecchan to stretch, Old English stræc firm, severe

Date: before 12th century

transitive verb 1 : to extend (as one's limbs or body) in a reclining position
2 : to reach out : extend <stretched out her arms>
3 : to extend in length <stretched his neck to see what was going on>
4 : to fell with or as if with a blow
5 : to cause the limbs of (a person) to be pulled especially in torture
6 : to draw up (one's body) from a cramped, stooping, or relaxed position
7 : to pull taut <canvas stretched on a frame>
8 a : to enlarge or distend especially by force b : to extend or expand as if by physical force <stretch one's mind with a good book> c : strain <stretched his already thin patience>
9 : to cause to reach or continue (as from one point to another or across a space) <stretch a wire between two posts>
10 a : to amplify or enlarge beyond natural or proper limits <the rules can be stretched this once> b : to expand (as by improvisation) to fulfill a larger function <stretching a dollar>
11 : to extend (a hit) to an extra base usually by fast or daring running <stretch a single into a double>intransitive verb 1 a : to become extended in length or breadth or both : spread <broad plains stretching to the sea> b : to extend over a continuous period <the dynasty stretches back several centuries>
2 : to become extended without breaking
3 a : to extend one's body or limbs <stretched before jogging> <wanted to stretch out on the sofa> b : to lie down at full length

— stretch·abil·i·ty \ˌstre-chə-ˈbi-lə-tē\ noun

— stretch·able \ˈstre-chə-bəl\ adjective

— stretchy \-chē\ adjective

— stretch a point : to go beyond what is strictly warranted in making a claim or concession

— stretch one's legs 1 : to extend the legs
2 : to take a walk in order to relieve stiffness caused by prolonged sitting