dilation

/daɪˈleɪʃən/
noun
  1. The process or action of becoming wider, larger, or more open.
    • Doctors monitor the dilation of the cervix during childbirth.
    • The dilation of blood vessels helps regulate body temperature.
    • Eye drops cause pupil dilation so the doctor can see the back of the eye.
  2. The act of causing something to become wider or more open.
    • The dilation of the artery was performed using a small balloon.
    • The dilation of the nostril helps increase airflow during heavy breathing.
    • Time dilation is a concept in physics where time passes differently at high speeds.
What does "dilation" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean