# outstretched

/aʊtˈstɹɛtʃt/ (US) · /aʊtstɹˈɛtʃt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/outstretched
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

stretched out as far as possible. You use this to describe arms, legs, or even a hand that is reaching for something.

For teachers: stretched out to the maximum extent. Often used to describe limbs or physical gestures of reaching or offering.

## Examples

- He held out his outstretched hand for help.
- The athlete stood with his outstretched arms, waiting for the coach to shake his hand after the race.
- The rescue team worked quickly to reach the stranded hikers, whose outstretched fingers were barely visible against the darkening sky.

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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.