† ˈtendiculeSurg.Obs.rare. [ad. L. tendicula, f.tendĕre to stretch: see -cule.] Name of an instrument for dilating an opening; a dilator. c1425tr.Arderne's Treat. Fistula, etc. 24 Þan take þe tendicule and putte þe snowte of þe nedle in þe hole of þe fistule in puttyng it strongly.