extend

Extend is a verb with several related senses centered on increasing reach, scope, or duration. The core meaning is to cause something to reach further in space or time: to physically stretch an object to make it longer, to extend a hand, or to extend a rope. It also means to broaden or prolong something, such as extending a deadline, a contract, or a program’s reach. In social and formal contexts, one can extend an invitation, extend credit, or extend courtesy, all implying a deliberate expansion of status, access, or obligation.

The noun form extension refers to the act of extending or to something that has been added or lengthened. Common usages include a building extension (an added portion of a structure), a file extension (the suffix that indicates a file’s format), or a software extension (an add-on that expands functionality). In computing and technology, to extend a system often means to add new features or compatibility, typically through modular design or inheritance.

Usage notes: Extend emphasizes intentional action to increase range or duration, and is often used with time, space, or capability. It can contrast with shorten or reduce when describing changes to limits, while it is related to stretch in describing the physical act of pulling or lengthening.

Etymology: from Latin extendere, meaning “to stretch out,” through Old French extender or English usage. Examples include extending a deadline, extending the warranty, or extending a hand to help.