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 verb1: to extend (as one's limbs or body) in a reclining position2: 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 blow5: to cause the limbs of (a person) to be pulled especially in torture6: to draw up (one's body) from a cramped, stooping, or relaxed position7: 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 verb1 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 breaking3 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 legs2: to take a walk in order to relieve stiffness caused by prolonged sitting