outstretch

American  

[out-strech] / ˌaʊtˈstrɛtʃ /

verb (used with object)

1. to stretch forth; extend.

   to outstretch one's hand in welcome.

2. to stretch out; expand.

   The rising population has outstretched the city.

3. to stretch beyond.

   His behavior outstretches my patience.

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outstretch British  

/ ˌaʊtˈstrɛtʃ /

verb

1. to extend or expand; stretch out

2. to stretch or extend beyond

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Other Word Forms

• outstretcher
  noun

Etymology

Origin of outstretch

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; see origin at out-, stretch