Outspread: meaning, definitions and examples

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outspread

 

[ aʊtˈsprɛd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

to extend

To outspread means to spread out or extend something over a larger area. This term is often used when referring to the expansion of physical objects, like fabric or wings. It can also refer to abstract ideas, like emotions or influence, being extended to a wider reach. The concept is closely related to the idea of dispersal or distribution.

Synonyms

expand, extend, open, spread

Examples of usage

  • She outspread the blanket on the grass.
  • The bird outspread its wings to soar high.
  • He outspread his arms in welcome.
  • The flowers outspread their petals in the sunlight.

Translations

Translations of the word "outspread" in other languages:

🇵🇹 espalhar

🇮🇳 फैलाना

🇩🇪 ausbreiten

🇮🇩 menyebarkan

🇺🇦 розпростерти

🇵🇱 rozprzestrzenić

🇯🇵 広げる

🇫🇷 étendre

🇪🇸 extender

🇹🇷 yaymak

🇰🇷 펼치다

🇸🇦 نشر

🇨🇿 rozprostřít

🇸🇰 rozprestrieť

🇨🇳 展开

🇸🇮 razprti

🇮🇸 breiða út

🇰🇿 жайылу

🇬🇪 გაფართოება

🇦🇿 yaymaq

🇲🇽 extender

Etymology

The word 'outspread' is formed by the prefix 'out-' which indicates a movement or extension beyond a certain limit, combined with the word 'spread', which has Old English origins from 'spriædan', meaning to spread out. The etymology of 'spread' goes back to Proto-West Germanic roots. The combination of these elements evoked the imagery of something that not only spreads but does so expansively, reaching outwards. The term has been in use since the late 14th century, often describing both physical and abstract expansions. As language evolved, 'outspread' took on various connotations in literature and everyday speech, emphasizing the act of outreach in many forms, from nature's phenomena to human gestures.