DISTEND Synonyms: 76 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the verb 'distend' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of distend are amplify , dilate , expand , inflate , and swell . While all these words mean "to increase in size or volume," distend implies outward extension caused by pressure from within. // a distended abdomen

Q: When can 'amplify' be used instead of 'distend'?

The words amplify and distend can be used in similar contexts, but amplify implies the extension or enlargement of something inadequate. // amplify the statement with details

Q: When might 'dilate' be a better fit than 'distend'?

The words dilate and distend are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, dilate applies especially to expansion of circumference. // dilated pupils

Q: In what contexts can 'expand' take the place of 'distend'?

Although the words expand and distend have much in common, expand may apply regardless of the manner of increase (such as growth, unfolding, addition of parts). // a business that expands every year

Q: When is it sensible to use 'inflate' instead of 'distend'?

The meanings of inflate and distend largely overlap; however, inflate implies expanding by introduction of air or something insubstantial and suggests a vulnerability to sudden collapse. // an inflated ego

Q: When is 'swell' a more appropriate choice than 'distend'?

While the synonyms swell and distend are close in meaning, swell implies gradual expansion beyond a thing's original or normal limits. // the bureaucracy swelled to unmanageable proportions

distend

verb

Definition of distend next

as in to expand

to make or become larger especially because of pressure from inside The illness can cause the stomach to distend.

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb distend differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of distend are amplify, dilate, expand, inflate, and swell. While all these words mean "to increase in size or volume," distend implies outward extension caused by pressure from within.

a distended abdomen

When can amplify be used instead of distend?

The words amplify and distend can be used in similar contexts, but amplify implies the extension or enlargement of something inadequate.

amplify the statement with details

When might dilate be a better fit than distend?

The words dilate and distend are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, dilate applies especially to expansion of circumference.

dilated pupils

In what contexts can expand take the place of distend?

Although the words expand and distend have much in common, expand may apply regardless of the manner of increase (such as growth, unfolding, addition of parts).

a business that expands every year

When is it sensible to use inflate instead of distend?

The meanings of inflate and distend largely overlap; however, inflate implies expanding by introduction of air or something insubstantial and suggests a vulnerability to sudden collapse.

an inflated ego

When is swell a more appropriate choice than distend?

While the synonyms swell and distend are close in meaning, swell implies gradual expansion beyond a thing's original or normal limits.

the bureaucracy swelled to unmanageable proportions

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of distend The Most Exciting New Advances in Managing COPD With another strategy, diaphragmatic breathing, patients concentrate on distending their abdomen while taking in air. —

Matt Fuchs, TIME, 24 Oct. 2024 Abdominal bloating is when the stomach feels full of gas and may become distended (sticks out). —

Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 14 Sep. 2024 His stomach was distended — a sign of severe malnutrition. —

Joe Snell, Washington Post, 30 July 2024 The dress had been constructed from a boudoir-ish bodice, which distended into a full-skirted ballgown, giving the impression of deliberate deshabillé, as if the design had been left unfinished on the mannequin. —

Daniel Rodgers, Vogue, 17 Apr. 2024 Their heads are twizzling, their eyes bulging, their teeth ground to the gums, their bowels distended. —

Brian T. Allen, National Review, 23 Dec. 2023 The silhouettes are distended and reveal the skin beneath these big cobwebs of yarn. —

Daniel Rodgers, Vogue, 6 Sep. 2023 At 6-foot-3, pushing 330 pounds, his appearance was misshapen by a stomach distended with fluid. —

Max Blau, ProPublica, 21 Aug. 2023 An ultrasound revealed that Sugar’s stomach was significantly distended and inflamed and that her pancreas was swollen and inflamed, according to the affidavit. —

Jonathan Edwards, Washington Post, 16 Aug. 2023

Recent Examples of Synonyms for distend

Verb

During the month of January, sky gazers will be able to see four planets in one view — and come February, the parade will only expand.

— Caitlin O'Kane, CBS News, 27 Jan. 2025
The new store will also greatly expand the selection of artist and band merchandise and audio equipment like turntables and speakers, as well as new and used vinyl and CDs.

— Jem Aswad, Variety, 27 Jan. 2025