protend

[ proh-tend ]

verb (used with object)

1. to stretch forth.
2. to extend in duration.

verb (used without object)

1. to stretch forward.

Word History and Origins

Origin of protend¹

1400–50; late Middle English protenden < Latin protendere to stretch out, extend, equivalent to pro- pro- ¹ + tendere to stretch; tend ¹

Example Sentences

Protend, prō-tend′, v.t. to stretch or hold out.—ns.

From Project Gutenberg

A lot of times, they do protend what is to come --- 2004 comes to mind when there was a little bit of optimism that maybe the team could surprise and instead, a mistake-filled loss to Fresno State heralded in a 1-10 season and told you all you needed to know about what was to come.

From Seattle Times

Now, for my god-heads remnant liues in thee, Whose lost successe breeds mine eternall end, Take for thine ayde, afflicting Miserie, Woe, mine attendant, and Dispayre my freend, All three my greatest great Triumuerie, Blood bath'd Carnifici, which will protend   A murdring desolation to that will,   Which me in thee, and thee in mee would kill.

From Project Gutenberg

N. B. I do not approve, or defend, nay, I dislike, these "United Theological Booksellers": but this utter Barrister is their best friend by attacking them so as to secure to them victory, and all the advantages of being known to have been wickedly slandered;—the best shield a faulty cause can protend against the javelin of fair opposition.

From Project Gutenberg

Fired by his words, the troops dismiss their fears, They join, they thicken, they protend their spears; Full on the Greeks they drive in firm array, And each from Ajax hopes the glorious prey: Vain hope! what numbers shall the field o'erspread, What victims perish round the mighty dead!

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• bulge
• bulge out
• jut out
• poke out
• protrude
• stand out