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Dilating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dilating

[dษชหˆleษชtษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

physiological process

Dilating refers to the process of expanding or enlarging an opening or a cavity in a biological or physical context. In physiology, it is often associated with blood vessels, pupils, or muscles, where it helps to regulate various bodily functions such as blood flow and light exposure. Dilating can also refer to the expansion of certain materials in response to heat or pressure, making it a relevant term in both medical and physical sciences.

Synonyms

enlarging, expanding, widening.

Examples of usage

  • The physician noted the dilating pupils under bright light.
  • During exercise, the blood vessels begin dilating to increase blood flow.
  • The technician observed the dilating reaction of the rubber band when heated.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, blood vessels dilate to allow more blood flow, essential during physical activity.
  • The pupil of the eye dilates in low light to let in more light, helping us see better.
  • Dilating weather patterns can explain phenomenon like how clouds expand before a rainstorm.

Health

  • In medical contexts, dilating is often used during childbirth when the cervix opens to allow for baby delivery.
  • Eye doctors use dilating drops to enlarge pupils, making it easier to examine the retina.
  • Some medications are designed to dilate blood vessels to lower blood pressure or improve blood flow.

Psychology

  • When someone is excited or surprised, their pupils may dilate, indicating heightened emotions.
  • Research suggests that dilated pupils can express attraction or interest in other people.
  • The connection between emotions and physical responses like dilation demonstrates the body-mind link.

Art and Creativity

  • Artists might 'dilate' their imagination, expanding the boundaries of their creativity through various mediums.
  • In literature, a story can be said to 'dilate' or expand as characters and themes develop over time.
  • Visual art can dilate perspectives, showing depth and space in ways that alter the viewer's perception.

Origin of 'dilating'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Dilating' comes from the Latin word 'dilatare', which means 'to spread out' or 'to enlarge'.
  • The prefix 'di-' suggests a doubling effect, while 'late' relates to enlarging.
  • The term has been used since the 15th century to describe physical and metaphorical expansion.

The term 'dilating' originates from the Latin word 'dilatere', meaning 'to spread out' or 'to enlarge'. This root combines 'dis-' meaning 'apart' and 'lateo', which means 'to lie hidden or concealed'. The transition from Latin to English occurred during the Middle Ages, where the word was adapted into various scientific and medical terminologies. Its usage has grown, particularly in fields like medicine, where it is crucial for describing the behavior of muscles and vessels. As sciences have evolved, so has the terminology, solidifying 'dilating' as a standard term in disciplines such as biology, physics, and medicine.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,125, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.