extend
UK[ɪkˈstɛnd]US[ɪkˈstɛnd]
v
To make something longer or larger in space or time.
v
To stretch out a part of your body, especially a limb.
v
To offer or make something available.
Morpheme Breakdown
ex
tend
ex
out
tend
stretch
Etymology
The word 'extend' originates from the Latin verb extendere, a compound of ex- ("out") and tendere ("to stretch"). This literal sense of "stretching out" was used both physically, as in extending one's arm, and metaphorically, as in stretching out time or influence. The core concept of moving or expanding from a central point outward has been preserved throughout its evolution into modern English. It entered Middle English via Anglo-French, retaining its fundamental meaning of causing something to occupy more space or last for a longer duration.
Analysis
Structure: ex (out) + tend (stretch)
- ex: A Latin prefix meaning "out, out of, forth."
- tend: A root from the Latin verb tendere, meaning "to stretch, strive, proceed."
Examples
The company plans to extend its operations into three new countries.
Please extend your arm so the nurse can check your blood pressure.
We would like to extend a warm welcome to all our new members.