verb
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to extend or expand; stretch out
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to stretch or extend beyond
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of outstretch
Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; see origin at out-, stretch
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.
If you lived rurally, if you saw what happens when people’s intentions outstretch their abilities, you would know.
From Washington Post • Apr. 10, 2023
When you’re ready to end the flight, simply outstretch your hand to the Pixy, and it returns to your palm.
From The Verge • Apr. 28, 2022
I have just enough space that I can outstretch my arm, but not open my hand.
From Seattle Times • Feb. 21, 2020
Summitt was empowering women to be themselves, educating women to follow their dreams, and inspiring women to outstretch their society-restricted reach.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 28, 2016
They outstretch their arms and hug me tightly until I bawl and tell them what they want to hear.
From "Please Ignore Vera Dietz" by A.S. King
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
