elongate

UK: ˈiːlɒŋɡeɪt | US: ɪˈlɔːŋɡeɪt

Definition

  1. vt. to make or become longer in spatial extent

  2. adj. stretched or extended in length

Structure
e <out>long <length>ate <verb suffix>
Etymology

Derived from Latin elongare ("to lengthen"), combining e- (a variant of ex-, meaning "out") + longus ("long"). The suffix -ate was added in Late Middle English to form the verb. The morphemes reflect a logical progression: "out" (extension) + "long" (length) + action suffix, conveying the idea of stretching or lengthening.

Examples

  1. The rubber band can elongate to twice its original length.

  2. Scientists observed how the cells elongate under microscopic pressure.

  3. The artist chose to elongate the figure in the painting for dramatic effect.

  4. Heat causes metals to elongate slightly.

  5. The caterpillar’s body can elongate when moving between leaves.