Extend
/ɪkˈstɛnd/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo increase the length, area, or scope of something.
/ɪkˈstɛnd/
To make longer or larger; stretch out.
The teacher extended the deadline for the project.
💡 Simply: Imagine you have a piece of playdough and you want to make it longer. When you pull it, you EXTEND it! It's like making something bigger or longer.
👶 For kids: To make something bigger or longer, like stretching a piece of gum!
More Examples
They extended the road to connect the two towns.
The artist extended the canvas to create a larger painting.
How It's Used
"The company plans to extend its operations into new markets."
"The scientist extended the experiment to include more variables."
To offer something to someone, such as help, hospitality, or an invitation.
/ɪkˈstɛnd/
To offer or provide.
She extended an invitation to dinner.
💡 Simply: Think about reaching out and giving someone something, like offering a hand to help them up or giving a gift. You're EXTENDING something to them.
👶 For kids: To give something to someone, like a helping hand or a nice treat!
More Examples
The company extended their condolences to the family.
He extended a warm welcome to the new employees.
How It's Used
"I would like to extend my gratitude for your help."
"The bank extended a loan to the small business."
To stretch out or reach out, particularly a limb or body part.
/ɪkˈstɛnd/
To reach or stretch out.
The dog extended its paw to greet its owner.
💡 Simply: Imagine stretching your arm out to grab a cookie! You are EXTENDING your arm. It's like reaching.
👶 For kids: To stretch out a body part, like reaching for the stars!
More Examples
She extended her hand in friendship.
The bird extended its wings before taking flight.
How It's Used
"The snake extended its body across the path."
"The gymnast extended their arms during the routine."
Idioms & expressions
extend an invitation
To offer an invitation.
"The couple extended an invitation to the wedding to all their friends and family."
extend a loan
To grant a loan.
"The bank extended a loan to help the small business start up."
extend an olive branch
To offer a gesture of peace or reconciliation, especially after a conflict.
"After their argument, she extended an olive branch by apologizing."
From Middle English *extenden*, from Old French *estendre* (French *étendre*), from Latin *extendere* ('to stretch out'), from *ex-* ('out') + *tendere* ('to stretch').
The word 'extend' has been used since the 14th century and has maintained its core meaning of increasing length or scope.
Memory tip
Think of stretching out a rubber band – that's extending something!
Word Origin
"to stretch"