To make something longer or larger in space or time. It can also mean to offer something, such as help, an invitation, or a deadline.
From Latin *extendere* ‘to stretch out’, from *ex-* (‘out’) and *tendere* (‘to stretch’). The original image is of something being physically stretched or spread.
When you ‘extend a hand’ or ‘extend an invitation,’ you’re metaphorically stretching a bridge toward someone. The same stretching idea runs from extending a table to extending a deadline—more length, more room, more time.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.