n.
Function: noun
Date: 1541
1 a : an exercise of something (as the understanding or the imagination) beyond ordinary or normal limits <their conclusion seemed like a bit of a stretch > b : an extension of the scope or application of something <a stretch of language>
2 : the extent to which something may be stretched
3 a : the act of stretching : the state of being stretched <a good stretch for legs> b : the position of a pitcher standing sideways to home plate so as to keep a runner close to a base <pitching from the stretch >
4 a : an extent in length or area <an open stretch of road> b : a continuous period of time <can write for eight hours at a stretch >
5 : a walk to relieve fatigue
6 : a term of imprisonment <served a 10-year stretch >
7 a : either of the straight sides of a racecourse especially : HOMESTRETCH b : a final stage (as of a contest or season) <won some crucial games down the stretch >
8 : the capacity for being stretched : ELASTICITY <a waistband with lots of stretch >
9 : a stretch limousine