prolong

pro·long

verb \prə-ˈlȯŋ\

: to make (something) last or continue for a longer time

Full Definition of PROLONG

transitive verb

1

:  to lengthen in time :  continue

2

:  to lengthen in extent, scope, or range

— pro·lon·ga·tion \(ˌ)prō-ˌlȯŋ-ˈgā-shən, prə-\ noun

— pro·long·er \prə-ˈlȯŋ-ər\ noun

Examples of PROLONG

1. Additives are used to prolong the shelf life of packaged food.
2. High interest rates were prolonging the recession.

Origin of PROLONG

Middle English, from Middle French prolonguer, from Late Latin prolongare, from Latin pro- forward + longus long

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to PROLONG

Synonyms

drag (out), draw out, elongate, lengthen, outstretch, extend, protract, stretch

Antonyms

abbreviate, abridge, curtail, cut, cut back, shorten

Related Words

amplify, enlarge, expand, increase; attenuate, thin

Near Antonyms

decrease, diminish, lessen, reduce; thicken

See Synonym Discussion at extend