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

The rent will be reviewed every five years, and the arrangement is technically short-term given the 20-year duration. —Janine Henni, PEOPLE, 5 June 2026

Deep sleep and sleep duration is important. —Renée Onque, CNBC, 5 June 2026

Both track movement throughout the day, a range of different exercises, sleep duration and stages, and stress levels. —Andrew Gebhart, PC Magazine, 4 June 2026

Other law enforcement, from Atlanta Police to FBI Agents, will be staffed throughout the city for the duration of the World Cup. —Irene Wright, USA Today, 4 June 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