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

In the north San Gabriel Valley, South LA and Long Beach, those who live along the very lengthy A Line or near one of the light-rail’s stations, may be up for the challenge. — Steve Scauzillo, Daily News, 7 Aug. 2026

After a lengthy legal battle, the yacht was auctioned off by order of the Justice Department in September. — Robert Frank, CNBC, 6 Aug. 2026

Many observers interpreted his lengthy diplomatic career as a means of keeping him away from domestic politics. — Ethan Teekah, Encyclopedia Britannica, 6 Aug. 2026

Prosecutors in Chicago later moved to dismiss the indictment here due to Girardi’s age and lengthy prison sentence. — Jason Meisner, Chicago Tribune, 6 Aug. 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