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Outstretched - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Outstretched means extended or stretched out to full length, often describing arms, hands, or limbs reaching outward. It implies openness, readiness, or an effort to grasp or offer something.

outstretched

/aʊtˈstrɛtʃt/ /aʊtˈstrɛtʃt/

Definition:

Extended or stretched out to full length.

Synonyms:

extended, stretched, spread, expanded, unfolded

Part of Speech:

adjective, verb (past participle)

Antonyms:

retracted, contracted

Common Collocations:

outstretched arms, outstretched hand, outstretched wings

Derivatives:

outstretch (verb), outstretching (noun/gerund)

Usage Tips:

Use to describe limbs or objects fully extended, often implying openness or readiness.

Common Phrases:

with arms outstretched, lie outstretched, reach outstretched hands

Etymology:

Derived from Old English "ūt" (out) + "streccan" (to stretch).

Examples:

  • 1. She lay on the grass with her arms outstretched toward the sky.
  • 2. The bird soared with its wings outstretched gracefully.
  • 3. He greeted me with an outstretched hand and a warm smile.
  • 4. The cat yawned and stretched its paws fully outstretched.

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