Dilatable (/ˈdɪlətəbəl/) is a word that describes something that can be expanded or stretched. The word is spelled with the prefix "dilat-" which means to spread out or widen. The "a" in the second syllable is pronounced as an unstressed "uh" sound, represented in IPA as /ə/. The final syllable is pronounced as "-able," which means "able to be done or used." When spelled phonetically, the word is pronounced: di-luh-tuh-bull.
Dilatable is an adjective used to describe something that is capable or able to be expanded, enlarged, or stretched. The term originates from the verb "dilate," meaning to widen, extend, or increase in size or volume.
In a physical sense, dilatable refers to objects or substances that have the property or characteristic of being stretched or expanded. This term often finds applications in various fields, such as engineering, where materials or structures are required to be dilatable to accommodate changes in shape, temperature, or pressure without breaking or losing functionality. For example, a dilatable pipe can be flexible enough to adapt to different angles or be extended as needed.
Furthermore, the term can also be used to describe medical conditions or bodily functions. For instance, dilatable arteries refer to blood vessels that have the ability to expand to allow for increased blood flow. Similarly, dilatable pupils describe the ability of the eye's iris to increase or decrease its size in response to varying levels of light.
In a figurative sense, dilatable can describe abstract concepts such as opinions, beliefs, or attitudes that are subject to change or expand. It implies that one's perspective or mindset can be broadened or altered with new information or experiences.
Overall, dilatable refers to the capacity to expand, enlarge, or stretch physically or metaphorically. It encompasses the notion of adaptability, flexibility, or malleability in various contexts, whether they are related to physical objects, biological functions, or abstract concepts.
Elastic; capable of expansion.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "dilatable" is derived from the Latin term "dilatabilis", which is formed from the verb "dilatare", meaning "to spread out", "to enlarge", or "to widen". The Latin word "dilatare" is a combination of the prefix "di-", indicating "apart" or "out", and the verb "latare", meaning "to carry" or "to extend". Ultimately, the word "dilatable" implies the capacity or ability to be expanded or stretched out.