splay

UK: spleɪ | US: spleɪ

Definition

  1. v. to spread out or extend outward in different directions

  2. adj. turned outward or widened

  3. n. a slanted or oblique angle

Structure
s <expansive>play <bend>
Etymology

The word "splay" originated in Middle English as "splayen," combining the expansive prefix "s-" with "playen" (to bend). It originally described the act of spreading or bending outward, later evolving to describe physical angles (e.g., splayed legs) and metaphorical expansion. The logic traces back to the visual imagery of something unfolding or fanning out.

Examples

  1. The cat splayed its paws when landing.

  2. The door hinges were splayed, making it difficult to close.

  3. Her fingers splayed across the piano keys.

  4. The artist splayed the colors wildly on the canvas.

  5. The tree’s roots splayed outward, gripping the soil.