Laxi Dictionary

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Definition stretch in British English

stretch verb

verb
/stretʃ/
1

to pull something to make it longer or wider

Example

I'll have to get these shoes stretched.

Synonyms and related words
lengthen stretch shorten widen stretch open out
1.1

to become longer or wider by pulling

Example

Her new knitted dress had stretched.

Synonyms and related words
lengthen stretch shorten widen stretch open out
1.2

if a material such as cloth stretches, it becomes wider or longer when you pull it, and returns to its original shape and size when you stop pulling it

Example

When you're pregnant it helps to wear fabrics that stretch as you grow.

Synonyms and related words
bag breathe bunch
2

to pull something so that it becomes smooth, straight, and tight

Example

a folding chair made of white canvas stretched on a metal frame

Example

The little birds are caught in nets stretched between the trees.

Synonyms and related words
drag heave tear at loosen unwind slacken
3

to make your arms, legs, or body as straight as possible so that your muscles become long and tight

Example

I leaned back in the chair and stretched.

Example

This exercise strengthens the lower back and stretches the hamstrings.

Synonyms and related words
reach out reach kick
3.1

to move an arm or a leg away from your body in order to reach something

Example

He stretched his hand towards her.

Synonyms and related words
reach out reach kick
Example

The empire stretched all the way from Scotland to the Pyrenees.

Example

The beach stretches for miles in each direction.

Example

Old grey houses stretched into the distance.

Example

The traffic stretched as far as the eye could see.

Synonyms and related words
abbreviated as long as your arm attenuated
4.1

to continue for a particular period of time

Example

Paul's initial two months' work experience ultimately stretched to five.

Example

Negotiations had now stretched into a twelfth day.

Example

They had an unbeaten record stretching back to 1995.

Synonyms and related words
last extend go back
5

to have enough money to pay for something

Example

I don't really think my salary will stretch to a designer suit.

Synonyms and related words
afford eke out subsist
6

to use all the money, supplies, or time available

Example

At best, police resources are stretched.

Example

Medical services were stretched to the limit.

Synonyms and related words
use up run out eat into
7

to make someone use all their intelligence or ability, especially in a way that is interesting or enjoyable

Example

I don't think his job really stretches him sufficiently.

Synonyms and related words
work drive push
8

to no longer be reasonable

Example

Foreman's book has a plot that stretches credulity to the utmost.

9

to allow something that is usually not allowed because of a special situation

Example

We might be prepared to stretch the rules a little in this instance.

Example

Couldn't you stretch a point for a friend?

Synonyms and related words
excuse exempt stretch
Definition stretch in British English