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. The warmth distends the chinks. Dryden.
Syn.
— To dilate; expand; enlarge; swell; inflate.
DISTEND
Dis*tend", v. i.
Defn: To become expanded or inflated; to swell. "His heart distends with pride." Milton.
DISTENSIBILITY
Dis*ten`si*bil"i*ty, n.
Defn: The quality or capacity of being distensible. [R.]
DISTENSIBLE
Dis*ten"si*ble, a.
Defn: Capable of being distended or dilated.
DISTENSION
Dis*ten"sion, n.
Defn: Same as Distention.