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

Older adults should prolong the duration of their stretches to 30 to 60 seconds per position, Marker advised. —Julia Ries Wexler, Health, 25 Feb. 2026

Flu, if caught early, can be treated with antiviral medications to lessen symptoms and their duration. —Nicole Villalpando, Austin American Statesman, 25 Feb. 2026

The level and duration of violence depend on a few factors, such as whether there was a succession plan and what kind of alliances are in place with other cartels. —Angélica Durán-Martínez, The Conversation, 24 Feb. 2026

Most other supplements have no real advantage for colds, including vitamin C, which, when started at the onset of symptoms, doesn’t help lessen the duration or severity, research shows. —The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Feb. 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
• bination
• carnation
• cassation
• castration
• causation
• centration
• cessation
• cetacean
• chelation
• citation
• collation

Kids Definition

duration

noun

du·​ra·​tion d(y)u̇-ˈrā-shən 

: the time during which something exists or lasts