Stretcher

/ˈstrɛtʃər/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A device used for transporting the sick or injured.

The paramedics quickly placed the patient on the stretcher to transport him to the ambulance.

A canvas or similar material stretched on a frame for use in painting or artwork.

The artist prepared his stretcher with a fresh canvas before beginning his new painting.

A device for spreading or extending something, typically in a construction or agricultural context.

They used a stretcher to hold the fabric taut while they worked on the sewing project.

Early 14th century, from Middle English stretche, the action of stretching.

on a stretcher

Being transported on a stretcher, usually due to injury or medical condition.

take to the stretcher

To carry someone who is injured or incapacitated on a stretcher.

litter

A type of stretcher used for carrying a person.

gurney

A wheeled stretcher used in hospitals or ambulances.

bearer

A person or device that carries or supports.

A term sometimes used humorously to refer to someone being overly dramatic about a minor injury.

He fell and now expects to be carried off on a stretcher.