stretch

Definition

  • verb: to make (something) wider or longer by pulling it
  • verb: to extend (as one's limbs or body) in a reclining position
  • usually singular
  • synonyms: spread, expand, tighten

Examples

  • ('informal') She's a good musician but comparing her to the legends is 'stretching it'. [=she's good but she can't really be compared to the legends]

  • Although it may be 'stretching a point' [=exaggerating slightly] to say that this was his best win ever, it was nevertheless impressive.

  • The work doesn't 'stretch' me intellectually. [=the work is too easy for me; the work is not intellectually challenging]

Movie quotes

  • (..) -That's firewood. Hello, my lover. Make way for the Lord's work! Make way for the Lord's work! A benediction for these poor men who are about to stretch. God receive them in Thy mercy... ...and show them the love they so richly deserve. Hey! Nothing there but trouble, boy. (..)
    1991 Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves
  • (..) You think the Sheriff will give everything back after I'm gone? He'll give us the reward and our pardons. Wrong! He'll stretch your necks one by one. What would you have us do? Fight armored men on horseback with rocks and bare hands? If needs be. But with the one true weapon (..)
    1991 Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves