lengthy

adjective

ˈleŋ(k)-thē How to pronounce lengthy (audio)
ˈlen(t)-
lengthier; lengthiest
1
: protracted excessively : overlong
2
lengthily adverb
lengthiness noun

Examples of lengthy in a Sentence

The process is both lengthy and costly. a series of lengthy delays Lengthier trips require more planning.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Needless to say, the Sox entered Saturday looking for a lengthy outing from starter Aaron Civale. Lamond Pope, Chicago Tribune, 21 June 2025 Golden State has a $1.96 million option on him for the coming season, but the likely move is to decline it and sign him to a lengthier, cap-friendly deal as a non-Bird free agent. John Hollinger, New York Times, 21 June 2025 That’s a gap of 15 months for filming and post-production, lengthy even in this current streaming era. Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 21 June 2025 The uncertainty has drawn comparisons in MAGA circles to faulty intelligence in Iraq, which supporters of the movement blame for the lengthy war. Anne Flaherty, ABC News, 21 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for lengthy

Word History

First Known Use

1689, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lengthy was in 1689

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Cite this Entry

“Lengthy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lengthy. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

lengthy

adjective
ˈleŋ(k)-thē How to pronounce lengthy (audio)
ˈlen(t)-
lengthier; lengthiest
: very long
lengthily adverb
lengthiness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on lengthy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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