extension
UK[ɪkˈstɛnʃn]US[ɪkˈstɛnʃn]
n
The act of making something longer or larger; the process of becoming longer or larger.
n
An extra part that is added to something to make it longer or larger.
n
An extra period of time allowed for something.
n
A telephone line connected to a central system in a large building.
Morpheme Breakdown
ex
tens
ion
ex
out
tens
stretch
ion
noun suffix
Etymology
The word 'extension' has a clear linear logic from its Latin components. It originates from the Latin verb extendere, meaning "to stretch out", which itself is a compound of ex- ("out") and tendere ("to stretch"). The suffix -ion was added to form the noun of action, extensionem, denoting the act or result of stretching out. This literal sense of physical stretching evolved in English to encompass a wide range of abstract and practical meanings, from the lengthening of time or space to the addition of subsidiary parts like phone lines or building annexes, all preserving the core concept of something being drawn out or expanded from a central point.
Analysis
Structure: ex (out) + tens (stretch) + ion (noun suffix)
ex: Latin origin, a prefix meaning "out, outward, thoroughly".
tens: Latin origin, from the root of the verb tendere meaning "to stretch".
ion: Latin origin, a suffix forming nouns of action or state.
Examples
The company announced a two-year extension of the project deadline.
She added a beautiful glass extension to the back of her house.
Please dial extension 407 to reach the marketing department.