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overstretch

noun over·stretch \ ˈō-vər-ˌstrech \

Definition of overstretch

plural overstretches
: the act or an instance of stretching something beyond normal limits
  • an overstretch of political power
  • … a classic case of military and economic overstretch.
  • —Robert G. Patman

First Known Use of overstretch

1749

in the meaning defined above

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2

overstretch

verb over·stretch \ ˌō-vər-ˈstrech \

Definition of overstretch

overstretched; overstretching
transitive + intransitive
: to stretch (something or someone) to excess or beyond normal limits
  • Worsted yarn, and any yarn inclined to "kink" should be weighted slightly as it dries, but take care not to overstretch the wool.
  • —Eileen Hobden
  • temperature changes causing the tire to overstretch
  • They overstretched [=overextended] themselves financially.
  • Too few staff means overstretched [=overburdened] crews and patients waiting for longer.
  • —Christina McAnea

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First Known Use of overstretch

15th century

in the meaning defined above

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