"Stretching the Nostril Wide": Literal & Figurative Meanings

Literal meaning: Maximally dilating the nostrils (nasal valve opening) to increase airflow—typically for a deep breath, smelling, or during respiratory distress.

Physiology

• Nasal valve = narrowest part of nasal airway (internal valve: septum/upper lateral cartilage; external valve: ala/columella)
• Dilation: Alar nasalis muscle (flares nostrils), dilator naris
• Increases cross-sectional area → ↓ resistance → ↑ inspiratory flow

Figurative Usage

• Intense interest/eagerness: "He stretched his nostrils wide at the news"
• Aggressive posturing: Animalistic dominance display (like snorting)
• Sensory acuity: "Stretching nostrils to catch the scent of opportunity"

Clinical Context

• Nasal valve collapse → inspiratory obstruction → surgical correction (spreader grafts, alar batten grafts)
• Flaring = sign of respiratory distress in infants

Both a measurable physiological action and a vivid metaphor for heightened attention or arousal.