as in spreading (out)
to arrange the parts of (something) over a wider area
you can't stretch out your legs to the point where you're blocking the aisle
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for stretching (out)
Verb
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According to Academy rules, the number of nominees in each category is determined by the volume of submissions, with the field expanding to a sixth lead or supporting nominee only once entries cross the 80-submission threshold.—
Michael Schneider,
Variety,
12 June 2026 -
Educational institutions, workforce agencies, employers, libraries, and community organizations each play an important role in expanding access to these capabilities.—
Michael Edmondson,
Forbes.com,
11 June 2026
Verb
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The Orioles made those big moves in signing Pete Alonso and trading for and extending Shane Baz.—
Stephen J. Nesbitt,
New York Times,
16 June 2026
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Different genes for different cytokines, growth factors or other proteins could be swapped in to target specific diseases of the ocular surface, potentially extending the approach beyond corneal wounds to chronic inflammatory conditions.—
Samantha Agate,
Charlotte Observer,
16 June 2026
Verb
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Lionel Messi was inches from opening the scoring in Kansas City with just about five minutes gone.—
The Kansas City Star,
Kansas City Star,
17 June 2026
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The Iranian men’s soccer team’s quick departure from Los Angeles following its opening World Cup match was always the plan, according to the US government, despite complaints from the team.—
Kyle Feldscher,
CNN Money,
16 June 2026
Verb
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Voting rights advocates across the South say a new chapter in the fight over political representation is unfolding following a series of court decisions and redistricting battles that could reshape congressional maps before the 2028 election cycle.—
Zachary Bynum,
CBS News,
17 June 2026
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With pockets of protests against the Iranian government unfolding outside SoFi Stadium, Iran just took the field for warm-ups.—
Andrew Greif,
NBC news,
16 June 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Stretching (out).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stretching%20%28out%29. Accessed 18 Jun. 2026.
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