verb
splay
Splay (verb) means to open something out or make it spread wider.
verb
1
To open something out or make it spread wider.
"The tracks are laid with the inner rails only 10 in. apart, except at the half way point (North Walk) where they are splayed out to allow the cars to pass."
— P. W. Gentry, Cliff Railways (1951)
2
To cut a sloped edge into something, such as a door or window frame.
3
(computing) To reorganise a particular kind of tree structure so that one chosen item ends up at the top.
4
To force a joint, such as a shoulder, out of its normal position.
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Etymology
PIE word *dwís The verb is derived from Middle English splaien, splayen (“to display; to spread out, unfurl (a flag, etc.); (cooking) to cut open (a fish) lengthwise and lay it open; (figurative) to appear; to spread”), an aphetic form of Middle English displaien, displayen (“to display”): see display. The adjective and adverb are derived from the verb, or from splayfoot (noun) or splayfooted (adjective). The noun is derived from the verb.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for splay
See all rhymes for splay →Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of splay?
"splay" (verb) means to open something out or make it spread wider.
What is another word for splay?
Other words for "splay" include luxate, slip, rotate, dislocate.
What are the different meanings of splay?
"splay" has 3 main meanings: 1. To open something out or make it spread wider; 2. To cut a sloped edge into something, such as a door or window frame; 3. (computing) To reorganise a particular kind of tree structure so that one chosen item ends up at the top.
