duration

noun

du·​ra·​tion du̇-ˈrā-shən 

also dyu̇-

1

: continuance in time

gradually increase the duration of your workout

2

: the time during which something exists or lasts

were there for the duration of the concert

Synonyms of duration

• time
• lifespan
• lifetime
• life
• continuance
• date

Examples of duration in a Sentence

You should gradually increase the duration of your workout.

for the whole duration of the speech the bored audience fidgeted

Recent Examples on the Web

Few eclipses in modern times have combined such exceptional duration, reliable weather and globally significant cultural landmarks along the path of totality. — Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 11 Aug. 2026

Depending on where one is located, the duration of totality can vary. — Taylor Nicioli, CNN Money, 10 Aug. 2026

The setup also gives NASA additional capacity for longer-duration liquid hydrogen testing. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 10 Aug. 2026

The duration of the cataclysm that was thought might have almost eradicated early humans was likely about 18 months total. — Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 9 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

see durance

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing duration

• for the duration

Rhymes for duration

• ablation
• aeration
• bination
• carnation
• cassation
• castration
• causation
• centration
• cessation
• cetacean
• chelation
• citation

Kids Definition

duration

noun

du·​ra·​tion d(y)u̇-ˈrā-shən 

: the time during which something exists or lasts