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distended

American  
[dih-sten-did] / dɪˈstɛn dɪd /

adjective

  1. increased, as in size, volume, etc.; expanded; dilated.

    the distended nostrils of the terrified horse.

  2. swollen, by or as by internal pressure, out of normal size or shape; protuberant.

    distended wineskins; the distended arteries of his neck.


Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

Etymology

Origin of distended

First recorded in 1590–1600; distend + -ed 2

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Onyeaka wondered if that abundance could be harnessed to feed people in conflict zones where children were suffering from malnutrition, their distended stomachs a clear sign of protein deficiency.

From Salon • Jan. 29, 2025

The first two were great fun, and apparently being subsumed into the distended viscera of the MCU won’t stop “Deadpool and Wolverine” or whatever from being R-rated fun.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 1, 2024

Cardiac activity can influence auditory and visual perception, and touch and sensory perceptions have been shown to be impaired during the systolic phase of the cardiac cycle when blood vessels are briefly distended.

From Science Daily • Nov. 28, 2023

He was severely jaundiced with a distended belly.

From BBC • Nov. 9, 2023

Then the young vet’s hands went down and moved over hips and distended abdomen—trained and knowing hands.

From "Travels with Charley in Search of America" by John Steinbeck

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