Synonyms of lengthen

lengthen

verb

ˈleŋ(k)-thən 

as in to extend

to make longer

I had to lengthen the handle of the paint roller in order to reach the top of the wall

Synonyms & Similar Words

• extend
• prolong
• increase
• stretch
• elongate
• protract
• expand
• drag (out)
• draw out
• enlarge
• outstretch
• amplify
• attenuate
• thin

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• shorten
• cut
• reduce
• curtail
• decrease
• cut back
• diminish
• lessen
• abridge
• abbreviate
• thicken

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb lengthen contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of lengthen are extend, prolong, and protract. While all these words mean "to draw out or add to so as to increase in length," extend and lengthen imply a drawing out in space or time but extend may also imply increase in width, scope, area, or range.

extend a vacation

extend welfare services

lengthen a skirt

lengthen the workweek

When might prolong be a better fit than lengthen?

While the synonyms prolong and lengthen are close in meaning, prolong suggests chiefly increase in duration especially beyond usual limits.

prolonged illness

How are the words protract and prolong related as synonyms of lengthen?

Protract adds to prolong implications of needlessness, vexation, or indefiniteness.

protracted litigation

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of lengthen

His presence in the fifth slot lengthens a batting order that is top heavy. —Walter Villa, Miami Herald, 5 June 2025

Warmer weather is lengthening the mosquito season in the United States, increasing populations of the pests and their ability to transmit diseases like Dengue fever and West Nile virus across the country. —Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 25 May 2025

Emily made her tired legs move more quickly, eager for the conversation to be over, but Gen lengthened her stride. —Literary Hub, 9 June 2025

This presents an opportunity for individuals and professionals alike, as edge is available simply by lengthening one’s time horizon. —Jeffrey Schulze, Forbes.com, 9 June 2025