dilate
verb (used with object)
to make wider or larger; cause to expand.
dilating
-
present participleof dilate.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
Scholars and intellectuals dilating in their little books: None of that matters anymore.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 15, 2026
Erectile dysfunction drugs, which work by dilating blood vessels to allow more blood to flow through, were first developed to treat high blood pressure.
From Science Daily ● Feb. 7, 2024
The exhaustive format played to President Macron's strengths: his mastery of detail and obvious delight in dilating on every conceivable subject.
From BBC ● Jan. 17, 2024
Some also have trouble with the lining of their small blood vessels not dilating and constricting properly to move blood through, she added.
From Seattle Times ● Aug. 9, 2023
Pain, shame, ire, impatience, disgust, detestation, seemed momentarily to hold a quivering conflict in the large pupil dilating under his ebon eyebrow.
From "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë
