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as in to expand
to arrange the parts of (something) over a wider area you can extend that chaise longue so that it lies completely flat

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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as in to lead
to be positioned along a certain course or in a certain direction our backyard extends all the way to that brook

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How does the verb extend contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of extend are lengthen, prolong, and protract. While all these words mean "to draw out or add to so as to increase in length," extend and lengthen imply a drawing out in space or time but extend may also imply increase in width, scope, area, or range.

extend a vacation
extend welfare services
lengthen a skirt
lengthen the workweek

When would prolong be a good substitute for extend?

The words prolong and extend can be used in similar contexts, but prolong suggests chiefly increase in duration especially beyond usual limits.

prolonged illness

How do protract and prolong relate to one another, in the sense of extend?

Protract adds to prolong implications of needlessness, vexation, or indefiniteness.

protracted litigation

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of extend This proactive approach to pool maintenance ensures a safer swimming environment, clear blue water and extends the overall lifespan of the pool and its equipment.​ Many pool cleaners now cater to different water types, preferences and maintenance needs. Jené Luciani Sena May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 31 May 2025 Hamas’ response to the US proposal demanded changes to three key areas, the source said: extending the ceasefire past 60 days, humanitarian assistance, and the positions to which Israeli troops will withdraw. Ibrahim Dahman, CNN Money, 31 May 2025 The mobile app now extends its utility as a productivity tool. Roger Dooley, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025 The bill extends Trump’s signature 2017 tax cuts and includes other revenue-cutting goodies like no taxes on tips, overtime and Social Security, with a potential price tag of more than $4.5 trillion. Dave Goldiner, New York Daily News, 20 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for extend
Recent Examples of Synonyms for extend
Verb
  • The wait seemed endless, especially given all the compensatory picks that lengthened the seventh round.
    Michael Silver, New York Times, 20 May 2025
  • And this oversized cut and loose silhouette suits Princess Kate particularly well; the high-waist fit visually lengthens her legs, while the angular cut of the blazer is confident and structured.
    Lina-Marie Baatz, Glamour, 14 May 2025
Verb
  • Remember, a tent offers no protection from lighting.
    STAR-TELEGRAM WEATHER BOT, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 June 2025
  • For investors watching the fintech space, Aether's approach offers a refreshing alternative to companies chasing the latest tech buzzwords.
    Wyles Daniel, USA Today, 5 June 2025
Verb
  • Abu Shabab’s social media presence, along with slick videos and fluent English commentary, has expanded.
    Tim Lister, CNN Money, 8 June 2025
  • The work taps into an expanding debate about how biological evolution fits within the normal framework of science.
    Philip Ball, Wired News, 8 June 2025
Verb
  • To lead effectively in this new landscape, business leaders should consider three mindset changes: 1.
    David Chiem, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
  • Polling has shown that Rep. Mikie Sherrill, a former Navy helicopter pilot who represents the state's 11th Congressional District, leads the crowded Democratic field, but the race could still be anyone’s to win.
    Brittany Shepherd, ABC News, 10 June 2025
Verb
  • Whether that caution slows adoption or increases security maturity remains to be seen, but the message is unambiguous: the era of unchecked AI optimism in federal cybersecurity is over.
    Emil Sayegh, Forbes.com, 7 June 2025
  • Tacoma did its own analysis and found that people with a regular housing voucher, and no time limit, actually fared better at increasing their incomes and moving on.
    Jennifer Ludden, NPR, 7 June 2025
Verb
  • The process starts with extracting CBD from the plant, which is then diluted with coconut oil or hemp seed.
    Brayden Garcia, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 June 2025
  • Similarly, the 34-game Major League Soccer schedule, plus numerous other matches played by many MLS standouts during the season, can dilute the quality of play by asking too much of players.
    Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 June 2025
Verb
  • Read More: Rather than needing a method to cook these large amounts of meat, these early humans needed a way to prolong the availability and longevity of meat for consumption over time.
    Sam Walters, Discover Magazine, 5 June 2025
  • Many see the peace talks as a charade that both sides know will fail, prolonged only to avoid the ire and impatience of President Donald Trump.
    Keir Simmons, NBC news, 3 June 2025
Verb
  • But West, giving the overall package its only public airing, couldn’t explain how leaving a restriction in place only for Springfield’s home county would pass legal muster.
    Ray Long, Chicago Tribune, 8 June 2025
  • This might look like suggesting a loose menu or theme ahead of time to give your guests some direction on what to bring, setting the table, and perhaps taking care of the main dish or drinks.
    Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 8 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Extend.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/extend. Accessed 13 Jun. 2025.

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