dilate
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /daɪˈleɪt/
KK: /daɪˈleɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To become larger or wider in size or extent.
Example
The pupils of her eyes dilate in low light to let in more light.
Tense Forms
Past: dilated
Past Participle: dilated
Conversation
Have you noticed how our teacher dilates on certain topics during lectures?
Yeah, it can be a bit much sometimes, but it's interesting.
I guess it's good that he dilates on things we need to understand.
True, but I still wish he'd keep it shorter for the sake of time.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
expand
enlarge
broaden
Antonyms
contract
shrink
narrow
transitive verb
Definition
To make something wider or larger; to cause it to expand.
Example
The doctor used special drops to dilate my pupils during the eye exam.
Tense Forms
Past: dilated
Past Participle: dilated
Conversation
Did you know that certain exercises can dilate your blood vessels?
Really? I had no idea it could do that!
Yeah, it helps improve circulation and makes your heart work better.
Root Explanation
Dilate → It is formed from "di-" (meaning apart) and "latus" (meaning wide). The word "dilate" means to make something wider or to spread apart.
Memory Tip
Think of something being made 'wider' ('latus') as it spreads 'apart' ('di-'). This helps you remember that 'dilate' means to widen or expand.
Visually Confused Words
depilate
pilate
filate
dilute
delate
adiate
undilated
late