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Showing results for dilate. Search instead for dilata.
Definitions

dilate

[dahy-leyt, dih-, dahy-leyt] / daɪˈleɪt, dɪ-, ˈdaɪ leɪt /
VERB
stretch, widen
Synonyms
STRONGEST
expound
STRONG
amplify augment broaden develop distend enlarge expand expatiate extend increase inflate lengthen prolong protract swell
WEAK
be profuse be prolix puff out
Antonyms
STRONG
abbreviate abridge compress condense contract curtail cut decrease deflate diminish lessen lower narrow reduce shorten shrink
WEAK
constrict

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Atropine eye drops are typically used to dilate the pupil before eye exams.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 28, 2025

Longer-term use of a catheter would only be needed if doctors were unable to sufficiently dilate the urethra.

From New York Times • Feb. 12, 2024

During the exam, pictures are taken of the backs of the eyes without the need to dilate them, and AI is used to provide an immediate result.

From Science Daily • Jan. 13, 2024

At regular concentrations of about 1 percent, atropine is used to dilate the pupil for eye exams.

From National Geographic • Nov. 1, 2023

Studies have shown that the pupils of people who are attracted to each other dilate from the presence of dopamine.

From "The Sun Is Also a Star" by Nicola Yoon

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.