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 fire chief said crews brought the fire under control after a lengthy battle. — Logan Hall, CBS News, 7 Nov. 2026

In the lengthy, heartfelt message, Jovovich praised Ever’s resourcefulness, strength, and perseverance. — Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 6 Nov. 2026

In a December 2023 interview, Brand, now 51, sat alongside his attorney and delivered a lengthy prepared statement to detectives, maintaining that his encounters were consensual. — Stephanie Giang-Paunon, FOXNews.com, 6 Nov. 2026

The order came hours after a federal planning commission approved the project 8-4, following a lengthy hearing marked by strong opposition. — Will Weissert, Los Angeles Times, 6 Nov. 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