dilate

[dahy-leyt, dih-, dahy-leyt] / daɪˈleɪt, dɪ-, ˈdaɪ leɪt /

VERB

stretch, widen

Synonyms

STRONGEST

expound

STRONG

amplify augment broaden develop distend enlarge expand expatiate extend increase inflate lengthen prolong protract swell

WEAK

be profuse be prolix puff out

Antonyms

STRONG

abbreviate abridge compress condense contract curtail cut decrease deflate diminish lessen lower narrow reduce shorten shrink

WEAK

constrict

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Atropine eye drops are typically used to dilate the pupil before eye exams.

From The Wall Street Journal

Woo glances up at the last second, and his large pupils dilate in recognition.

From Literature

Then he looked into his eyes, which appeared dilated, and saw that his face was purple.

From Los Angeles Times

After she was released, she went to the hospital where doctors told her she had already dilated two centimeters.

From Los Angeles Times

He had dilated pupils, a high heart rate, and had to be checked every 20 minutes until the plane arrived at Heathrow.

From BBC