lengthy

adjective

ˈleŋ(k)-thē 

ˈlen(t)-

lengthier; lengthiest

1

: protracted excessively : overlong

2

: extended, long

lengthily

ˈleŋ(k)-thə-lē 

ˈlen(t)-

adverb

lengthiness

ˈleŋ(k)-thē-nəs 

ˈlen(t)-

noun

Synonyms

• elongate
• elongated
• extended
• king-size
• king-sized
• long

Examples of lengthy in a Sentence

The process is both lengthy and costly.

a series of lengthy delays

Lengthier trips require more planning.

Recent Examples on the Web

This is the latest and is an attempt to pick ten memorable goals from a lengthy list. —Patrick Boyland, New York Times, 16 May 2025

For years, the immigration control agencies have been hampered by a lengthy hiring process, high attrition rates and difficulties in attracting qualified candidates. —Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 May 2025

What makes this glistening look work are the beading details throughout the lengthy overcoat and trousers. —Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 16 May 2025

After being signed to a major label for over a decade, along with a lengthy legal battle that has since been settled, Kesha is now an independent artist and the CEO of Kesha Records, which runs in partnership with Crush Music and ADA. —Sharareh Drury, People.com, 14 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1689, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

lengthy

adjective

ˈleŋ(k)-thē 

ˈlen(t)-

lengthier; lengthiest

: very long

lengthily

-thə-lē 

adverb

lengthiness

-thē-nəs 

noun