STRETCHING (OUT) Synonyms: 18 Similar and Opposite Words

stretching (out)

verb

present participle of stretch (out)

as in spreading (out)

to arrange the parts of (something) over a wider area you can't stretch out your legs to the point where you're blocking the aisle

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Recent Examples of Synonyms for stretching (out)

Verb

Her campaign has proposed expanding Medicaid and working toward rehabilitation efforts that provide alternatives to prison.

— Alexa Newsom, Kansas City Star, 28 July 2026
Technical textiles is a market that prioritizes performance over aesthetics and one that is rapidly expanding as industries focus on lightweight durability, sensor integration and environmental compliance.

— Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 27 July 2026

Definition of expanding

Verb

Across the country, rooftop bars are extending their hours, restaurants are debuting fresh menu offerings and final calls at happy hours become the soundtrack for the night, marking the final weeks of summer.

— Martie Bowser, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
Angel Reese and Naz Hillmon combined for 39 points, and Atlanta pulled away late to beat the Seattle Storm 98-89 at Gateway Center Arena, extending the Dream's winning streak to five games.

— Christopher Harris, CBS News, 1 Aug. 2026

Definition of extending

Verb

Come with a small group just before opening to get your name on the list early.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 July 2026
The internet and persistent digital-skills shortages then made labor markets far more transparent, opening external opportunities for workers and easier access to talent for employers.

— Kate Vitasek, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026

Definition of opening

Verb

But all in all, at about the same number of minutes as Nolan’s film, the linearly unfolding TV version fits in a stunning amount from Homer’s 24-book epic.

— Elaina Patton, IndieWire, 24 July 2026
Their collaboration lasted eight years, unfolding at a breakneck pace.

— Olivier Bouchara, Vanity Fair, 24 July 2026

Definition of unfolding

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stretching

stretching (out)

stretch (out)

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“Stretching (out).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stretching%20%28out%29. Accessed 2 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of stretching (out)

verb

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