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

Although it is not an ordinary high blood pressure medicine, it can dilate blood vessels.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 22, 2023

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

From National Geographic • Nov. 1, 2023

I stand in the room, letting the pupils of my eyes dilate, like a cat’s or owl’s.

From "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood