elongation

noun

elon·​ga·​tion (ˌ)ē-ˌlȯŋ-ˈgā-shən How to pronounce elongation (audio)
1
: the angular distance in the sky between a celestial body and another around which it revolves or between a celestial body and a particular point (such as the point where its path intersects the horizon)
the elongation of Venus from the Sun
2
a
: the state of being elongated or lengthened
also : the process of elongating
b
: something that is elongated

Examples of elongation in a Sentence

the elongation of artificial fibers in the manufacturing process
Recent Examples on the Web Per Toplak and Kerk, there is evidence of skull elongation being practiced in various ancient and medieval cultures, from South America and Central Asia to Southeast Europe. Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 10 June 2024 Simultaneously, the root continues its elongation to eventually launch off the crown from within the bone across the gum to appear in the mouth – the event known as teething. Samer Zaky, Discover Magazine, 10 May 2024 Their trial-and-error journeys consume much more screen time than warranted, and also force an unnecessary elongation of the period where Daniela is oblivious that the man who shares her bed isn’t really her husband. Alan Sepinwall, Rolling Stone, 7 May 2024 End of carousel During this peduncle elongation stage, the stalks bearing the blossom buds extend and, while the buds are still closed, the flowers become visible. Jason Samenow, Washington Post, 12 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for elongation 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'elongation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of elongation was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near elongation

Cite this Entry

“Elongation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/elongation. Accessed 2 Jul. 2024.

Medical Definition

elongation

noun
elon·​ga·​tion (ˌ)ē-ˌlȯŋ-ˈgā-shən How to pronounce elongation (audio)
1
: the state of being elongated or lengthened
also : the process of growing or increasing in length
chain elongation in DNA synthesis
the elongation of a muscle under tension
2
: something that is elongated

More from Merriam-Webster on elongation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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