ἐκτενής
ektenḗs
G1618 attributive adjective
SILEX Entry
Definition
Stretching out, earnest, zealous; describes a state or quality of being fully extended or exerted, especially in a figurative sense such as intense, fervent, or constant in attitude or action. In particular, it is often used to denote earnestness or intensity in prayer, effort, or love.
Semantic Range
outstretched, extended, earnest, fervent, zealous, constant, persistent, continuous, intense, unwavering
Root / Etymology
From ἐκτείνω (ekteinō, 'to stretch out, to extend'). Formed with the suffix -ής, forming an adjective indicating a persistent or continuous state.
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical Greek, ἐκτενής is attested with the sense of being outstretched, extended, or persistent. In Hellenistic and Koine Greek (including the Septuagint and New Testament), it acquires a more figurative meaning: 'earnest', 'steadfast', 'intense', or 'zealous'—typically describing attitudes such as love (ἀγάπη ἐκτενής), prayer (προσευχή ἐκτενής), or effort. This figurative sense is particularly prominent in New Testament usage, where it often implies a kind of unwavering commitment or intensity. English translations may render it as 'fervent', 'earnest', or 'continuous', but these can obscure the root image of 'stretching oneself out'. The nuance of constant, energetic effort can be lost in such translations.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from ἐκτείνω; intent:--without ceasing, fervent.
Root Family
ἐκτενής (ektenēs) — to stretch out, extend, exert; earnest, intense, persistent
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1618-01 |
ἐκτενῆ | ektene | ADJ.A ACC F SG |
fervent | earnest (feminine singular accusative) | earnest | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1618-01 |
1 Peter 4:8 | ἐκτενῆ | ektene | ADJ.A ACC F SG |
fervent | earnest (feminine singular accusative) | earnest |