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ἐκτενέστερον

ektenésteron

G1617 adverb

SILEX Entry

Definition

Comparative adverb meaning 'more fervently,' 'with greater eagerness or intensity.' Used to describe an action performed with intensified effort, zeal, or earnestness, often in relation to emotional or physical exertion. In context, it expresses an increased degree of persistence, diligence, or devotion compared to a prior state or standard.

Semantic Range

more fervently, more zealously, more intensely, more earnestly, with greater effort, with increased persistence

Root / Etymology

Formed as the neuter comparative adverb of ἐκτενής (ektenēs), itself from the preposition ἐκ (out) and the verbal stem τείνω (teinō, 'to stretch'). The suffix -έστερον marks comparative adverbial usage.

Historical & Contextual Notes

The root ἐκτενής (ektenēs) originally refers to being 'stretched out,' hence denotes intensity or perseverance, especially in classical Greek (cf. Xenophon, Plato). In Hellenistic and Koine usage, the term acquired metaphorical senses of zealousness, intensity, or earnestness (often of emotional or religious acts such as prayer). ἐκτενέστερον is rare, but when attested (e.g. Lk 22:44, Acts 12:5), it marks a heightened state of intensity. English translations as 'more earnestly' or 'even more fervently' reflect its comparative force, but the imagery of stretching or straining may be more vivid in the Greek. The term is not specific to religious contexts and would signal increased intensity in secular Greek as well, wherever the context suggests intensified endeavor or feeling.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

neuter of the comparative of ἐκτενής; more intently:--more earnestly.

Root Family

ἐκτενέστερον (ektenesteron) — to stretch out, to exert, to extend intensely

Root τειν- to stretch, to extend, to exert

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G1617-01 ἐκτενέστερον ektenesteron ADV more earnestly more intensely more intensely 1

Occurrences in Scripture

1 occurrence

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G1617-01 Luke 22:44 ἐκτενέστερον ektenesteron ADV more earnestly more intensely more intensely
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