long-distance

1 of 3

adjective

long-dis·​tance ˈlȯŋ-ˈdi-stən(t)s 

1

: of or relating to telephone communication with a distant point especially outside a specified area

2

a

: situated a long distance away

b

: going or covering a long distance

long-distance roads

a long-distance runner

c

: conducted or effective over long distance

a long-distance relationship

long-distance listening devices

long-distance

2 of 3

adverb

1

: by long-distance telephone

called her long-distance

2

: over or from a long distance

long distance

3 of 3

noun

1

: communication by long-distance telephone

2

: a telephone operator or exchange that gives long-distance connections

Examples of long-distance in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Thru-hiking clinics appeal to those dreaming of tackling long-distance trails like the Appalachian Trail. — Bill Bootz, Charlotte Observer, 12 Jan. 2026

Ferries may be the only link between islands, long-distance buses remain the backbone of inter-city travel, and weather disruptions can change your plans with little notice. — Maria Williams, USA Today, 11 Jan. 2026

Adverb

The screwworm fly is a lousy long-distance traveler. — Ciara McCarthy. Produced With Ai Assistance, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 June 2026

South African long-distance running also recently enjoyed another significant milestone when Cape Town became the eighth city to be granted the status as a World Marathon Major and the first in Africa. — Paige Bruton, semafor.com, 22 June 2026

Noun

Pa’lante combines Heesen’s elegant design DNA with sturdy steel construction, enabling it to travel long distances in style. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 26 June 2026

Unlike many marine animals whose larvae or young can drift long distances on ocean currents, walking sharks lay egg cases directly on the seafloor, so their offspring hatch close to where their parents lived. — Melissa Cristina Márquez, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1848, in the meaning defined at sense 2b

Adverb

1850, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Noun

1902, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

long-distance

1 of 3 adjective

long-dis·​tance

-ˈdis-tən(t)s

1

: of or relating to telephone communication with a distant point

2

a

: situated a long distance away

b

: going or covering a long distance

long-distance roads

a long-distance runner

c

: conducted or effective over a long distance

a long-distance relationship

long-distance listening devices

long-distance

2 of 3 adverb

: by long-distance telephone

long distance

3 of 3 noun

1

: communication by long-distance telephone

2

: a telephone operator or exchange that gives long-distance connections