# extend one's hand

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/extend-ones-hand
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To make a gesture of welcome or cordiality.

## Examples

- He extended his hand to welcome the new neighbor.
- Even though they had argued earlier, she extended her hand to show she wanted to make peace.
- The diplomat extended his hand to his former rival, signaling a desire to end the long conflict and begin a new era of cooperation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.