stretch
verb (used with object)
to draw out or extend (oneself, a body, limbs, wings, etc.) to the full length or extent (often followed byout ).
stretching
-
present participleof stretch.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.
The opposition movement, she believes, fails to notice the hardship she sees at the bar—the women waiting for a spot at the shelter, or the regulars stretching a drink since their homes are empty.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 16, 2026
Indonesia and neighbouring countries experience frequent earthquakes due to their location in the Pacific "Ring of Fire" -- an arc of intense seismic activity stretching from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin.
From Barron's ● Aug. 15, 2026
“The industry’s main tool for keeping payments manageable as prices rose has been stretching the loan, not lowering the price,” he said.
From MarketWatch ● Aug. 13, 2026
Messi equalled Telmo Zarra's 251-goal mark - set in 1955 by the Athletic Club forward - with a free-kick, before breaking it and stretching it with a third.
From BBC ● Aug. 12, 2026
Suddenly, she whacked her fist against the glass, and a crack stretched along the entirety of the screen like a spiderweb, the colors distorting, bands of deep red stretching across the image.
From "Night Owls" by A.R. Vishny
