C1verbformalsciencearts
US/ɪˈlɔːŋ.ɡeɪt/
UK/ˈiː.lɒŋ.ɡeɪt/
to make something longer, or to become longer, especially in shape
In context
The artist elongated the figures to make them look more graceful.
Cells elongate as the plant grows toward the light.
Shadows elongate in the late afternoon as the sun sinks.
Words that go with elongate
verb + noun
- elongate the bodyThe painter elongated the body of each figure.
- elongate a shapeStretching the clay will elongate the shape.
- elongate the neckThe portrait elongates her neck in a stylish way.
adjective + noun
- elongated shapeThe leaves have a narrow, elongated shape.
adverb + adjective
- slightly elongatedOn a wide screen the photo looks slightly elongated.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
We elongated the meeting by one hour.Correct: We extended the meeting by one hour.