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 of lengthy

• long
• elongate

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

The Olathe Public Schools Board of Education voted unanimously on Thursday night to close six schools in the district — five elementary schools and one middle school — after a lengthy discussion about financial woes and parent opposition. — Kendrick Calfee, Kansas City Star, 3 Oct. 2026

In a lengthy statement, Barnes reflected on a friendship that dated back to his early days in Cold Chisel, when the two bands crossed paths constantly. — Jessica Lynch, Billboard, 3 Oct. 2026

In contrast, a decision on the merits is typically worked on for months after full briefing and lengthy oral arguments. — Nina Totenberg, NPR, 3 Oct. 2026

Those new details were included in the lengthy confidential investigative report compiled by Cornell and reviewed by ABC News. — Aaron Katersky, ABC News, 2 Oct. 2026

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