rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryelongateLengthening
verb / adjective

elongate

ih-LAWNG-gayt/ɪˈlɔːŋɡeɪt/

To make or become longer.

The hands elongate the elastic by gently stretching its ends apart.

Two hands gently stretch a piece of elastic from short to long, unchanged thickness plausible.
Etymology
eLatinout
+longLatinlong
+ateLatinpast-participle ending

“Out” and “long” combine in the image of extending something farther. The Latin verb meant to prolong or remove to a distance, connecting increased reach with making something longer.

In context

Eastside Decoded – SCP4:19
the head may become misshapen and elongate or widen out
The Siberian Wasteland Made Entirely of Living Human Flesh (SCP-610)

More examples

  • The plant's stems elongate as it grows toward the light.
  • The artist elongated the figure's neck for a dramatic effect.
  • This plant has elongate leaves with pointed tips.

Forms

elongate · elongates · elongated · elongating

elongation noun — The act or process of lengthening.

Similar words

lengthen
The most direct, general word for making something longer.
stretch
Usually involves pulling something longer or making it taut.
extend
Often means adding length or reaching farther in space.