elongate

verb

elon·​gate i-ˈlȯŋ-ˌgāt 

(ˌ)ē-, 

ˈē-ˌlȯŋ-

elongated; elongating

transitive verb

: to extend the length of

intransitive verb

: to grow in length

Did you know?

Elongate is often found in scientific writing, but the adjective elongated is more common, and frequently used to describe body parts in discussions of anatomy. This was even the case when the superhero Elongated Man made his appearance back in 1960. But some other characters with the same powers—Plastic Man, Elastic Lad, and Mr. Fantastic—ended up having longer careers.

Synonyms of elongate

• lengthen
• extend
• stretch
• increase

Examples of elongate in a Sentence

These stretching exercises can help elongate your leg muscles.

New medical procedures have elongated the careers of many athletes.

Recent Examples on the Web

The square-shape also elongates your nail and brings an instantly classy feel to the set. —Amanda Le, InStyle, 6 June 2026

The toe cap decorates the shoe’s elongated and sharp pointy toe. —Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 4 June 2026

This relaxed pair has leg-elongating front seams — a popular trend among stars like Kelly Clarkson and Laura Dern. —Alyssa Grabinski, PEOPLE, 2 June 2026

Their breathable, modern silhouette keeps me feeling airy on my hour-long commute and comfortable in my desk chair, all while simultaneously elongating my legs for an effortlessly polished look that never fails to earn compliments. —Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 29 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin elongatus, past participle of elongare to withdraw, from Latin e- + longus

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Kids Definition

elongate

1 of 2 verb

elon·​gate i-ˈlȯŋ-ˌgāt 

elongated; elongating

: to make or grow longer

elongation

(ˌ)ē-ˌlȯŋ-ˈgā-shən

noun

elongate

2 of 2 adjective

variants or elongated

i-ˈlȯŋ-ˌgāt-əd

: stretched out

especially : being much greater in length than in width

Medical Definition

elongate

1 of 2 verb

elon·​gate i-ˈlȯŋ-ˌgāt 

elongated; elongating

transitive verb

: to extend the length of

intransitive verb

: to grow in length

elongate

2 of 2 adjective

variants or elongated

: long in proportion to width