sprawl
verb (used without object)
to be stretched or spread out in an unnatural or ungraceful manner.
is sprawling
-
present progressiveof sprawl (3rd person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate 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.
First, Congress must address a long‑recognized problem with the federal criminal code: It is sprawling and vague, with statutes that often lack clear requirements regarding criminal intent.
From Slate ● May 1, 2026
The site is sprawling, at 20,000 square metres, and if it goes ahead it would mark the biggest embassy in Europe.
From BBC ● Aug. 3, 2025
Sacramento is sprawling yet confined, natural yet metropolitan.
From Salon ● Apr. 11, 2025
But the earthquake-stricken area is sprawling, rugged and isolated.
From Reuters ● Sep. 12, 2023
She blinks, and suddenly the bald knight is sprawling through the dust.
From "The Inquisitor's Tale" by Adam Gidwitz
