ξαπλώσουμε
Wordform Details
Translation: to lie downto reclineto stretch out
Part of Speech: verb
Inflection Type:
first-personpluralaoristsubjunctiveIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: ξαπλώνω
Translation: to lie down; to stretch out; to lay down; to recline; to extend (verb)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἐκπλόω (ekplóō) meaning 'to sail out' or 'to spread out', which evolved through Byzantine Greek. The modern form developed from the compound ἐκ- (out) + πλόω (to sail/spread). The semantic shift from 'spreading sails' to 'spreading oneself out' reflects the physical action of extension. This etymology helps explain why the word conveys both the idea of lying down and stretching/extending something outward.
Example Usage
Ξαπλώνω στον καναπέ για να ξεκουραστώ.
I lie down on the couch to rest.
Μετά το φαγητό, ξάπλωσε για λίγο.
After eating, he lay down for a while.
Προτιμώ να ξαπλώνω στην αριστερή πλευρά.
I prefer to lie on my left side.
Ξάπλωσε το μωρό στο κρεβάτι.
Lay the baby down on the bed.
Ξαπλώνω στο κρεβάτι μου.
I lie down on my bed.
Ξάπλωσε στον καναπέ για να ξεκουραστεί.
He lay down on the sofa to rest.
Μη ξαπλώνεις στο γρασίδι!
Don't lie down on the grass!
Mnemonics
- Think 'X-apply-own' - you apply your X-shaped body down flat
- The 'ξα-' beginning sounds like 'za' - imagine saying 'Ahh' as you lie down and relax
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Commonly used in everyday Greek to describe the act of lying down for rest, sleep, or relaxation. Often used in the context of afternoon naps (σιέστα), which are culturally important in Greek society, especially during hot summer months.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: ξαπλώνω means to lie down (oneself), while απλώνω means to spread out or hang out (objects like clothes)
Notes: ξαπλώνω is reflexive (about oneself), απλώνω is transitive (about objects)
Mnemonic: ξαπλώνω has the 'ξα-' prefix like 'relax' - you relax by lying down; απλώνω is 'simple spreading' of objects