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

After a lengthy discussion about the effectiveness of the TADs and their potential burden on Fulton’s tax base, commissioners voted 4-1 not to take part. — Shaddi Abusaid, AJC.com, 16 July 2026

Known for being private about the subject, the Enola Holmes actor opened up about motherhood and her decision to adopt during a lengthy interview on Jay Shetty’s video podcast On Purpose. — Anna Zucca, Vanity Fair, 16 July 2026

But the capture of both these towns is likely to involve a similarly gruesome and lengthy fight, putting an even optimistic assessment of attaining this key Moscow war goal at least a year away. — Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Money, 16 July 2026

As usual, Nelson will spend the summer on the road with a lengthy amphitheater tour that culminates September 26 at Farm Aid in Virginia Beach, Virginia. — Daniel Kreps, Rolling Stone, 16 July 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