sprawl
verb (used without object)
to be stretched or spread out in an unnatural or ungraceful manner.
has sprawled
-
present perfectof sprawl (3rd person singular).present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
Homes here in what fire officials call the wildland urban interface — or where human development has sprawled into wilderness rich with fuels for fire — are among the most vulnerable.
From Seattle Times ● Jan. 20, 2024
When asked if there was any celebration in this run, in an existence that has sprawled this long, Ferry and Manzanera offered up two different approaches.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 26, 2022
Canada is grappling with a national housing crisis, as surging demand tied to the COVID-19 pandemic has sprawled beyond big cities and into smaller centers, which are unable to keep up with supply.
From Reuters ● Dec. 21, 2021
As Houston has sprawled westward over the Katy Prairie, 75 percent of its flood-absorbent grasslands have been paved over, turning natural detention basins into roads and houses.
From Slate ● Aug. 30, 2018
It has been largely absorbed in the immense swelling bulk of Mauna Loa, which, springing later from the island soil near by, no doubt diverting Kilauea's vents far below sea-level, has sprawled over many miles.
From The Book of the National Parks by Robert Sterling Yard
