Emily Dickinson Lexicon

stretch (-ed), v. [OE 'strait, rigid, stiff, to have extension, spread out, severe, harsh, unconnected'.]

1. Grow; unfurl; elevate; move higher; lift upward towards the light; [fig.] stand on tiptoe.
2. Extend; draw out; pull to greater length; [fig.] stress; make tense.
3. Mature; develop; expand spiritually.