Distend \Dis*tend"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Distended; p. pr. &
   vb. n. Distending.] [L. distendere, distentum, distensum;
   dis- + tendere to stretch, stretch out: cf. F. distendre to
   distend, d['e]tendre to unbend. See Tend, and cf.
   Detent.]
   1. To extend in some one direction; to lengthen out; to
      stretch. [R.]
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            But say, what mean those colored streaks in heaven
            Distended as the brow of God appeased? --Milton.
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   2. To stretch out or extend in all directions; to dilate; to
      enlarge, as by elasticity of parts; to inflate so as to
      produce tension; to cause to swell; as, to distend a
      bladder, the stomach, etc.
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            The warmth distends the chinks.       --Dryden.

   Syn: To dilate; expand; enlarge; swell; inflate.
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