Definition of lengthennext
as in to extend
to make longer I had to lengthen the handle of the paint roller in order to reach the top of the wall

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb lengthen contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of lengthen are extend, prolong, and protract. While all these words mean "to draw out or add to so as to increase in length," extend and lengthen imply a drawing out in space or time but extend may also imply increase in width, scope, area, or range.

extend a vacation
extend welfare services
lengthen a skirt
lengthen the workweek

When might prolong be a better fit than lengthen?

While the synonyms prolong and lengthen are close in meaning, prolong suggests chiefly increase in duration especially beyond usual limits.

prolonged illness

How are the words protract and prolong related as synonyms of lengthen?

Protract adds to prolong implications of needlessness, vexation, or indefiniteness.

protracted litigation

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of lengthen Between 1990 and 2023, summers lengthened by roughly six days per decade. Ann Manov, Harpers Magazine, 23 June 2026 It’s made of soft pebbled leather with a fabric lining, and the adjustable strap lengthens to 22 inches to get the best fit. Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 21 June 2026 The mother of the Princess of Wales paired her candy-pink look with lips in a bold cyclamen shade that lit up her smile, while her eyes were accentuated by a bold black line and lengthening mascara. Laura Scafati, Vanity Fair, 20 June 2026 Composed of 100 percent cotton, these jeans fit through the hip and thigh, and then relax after the knee, defining your waist and lengthening your legs all at once. Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 19 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for lengthen
Recent Examples of Synonyms for lengthen
Verb
  • The global index provider extended Indonesia’s status as an emerging market after freezing the country’s stocks in its indexes in January, citing investability concerns.
    Justina Lee, CNBC, 24 June 2026
  • Tuesday’s ruling declares the case a class action and extends the order nationwide.
    Sharon Bernstein, Sacbee.com, 24 June 2026
Verb
  • After refining, gasoline travels through pipelines, ships, trucks and fuel terminals before landing at filling stations, further prolonging higher prices for consumers.
    ABC News, ABC News, 24 June 2026
  • On the other hand, prolonged inactivity due to illness, immobilization or a sedentary lifestyle can lead to bone loss.
    Priya Bhardwaj, The Conversation, 22 June 2026
Verb
  • The rent on our apartment has increased by about 70% over the past six years.
    Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 28 June 2026
  • Angels reliever Ryan Zeferjahn (4-3) struck out two in a scoreless seventh to earn the win and increase his hitless streak to 10 innings, with 19 strikeouts, over his last nine appearances.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 28 June 2026
Verb
  • Work began this month on Cole Ranch in south Denton, a 4,365-home community along the booming Interstate 35W corridor that stretches to FM 1171 in Flower Mound.
    Kamal Morgan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 June 2026
  • Christensen suggests the state should instead focus on stripping back environmental regulations that make brush clearance and fire prevention costly, which would ensure state firefighters are not working excessive overtime and the state budget is not being stretched beyond its means.
    Evelyn Ronan, Sacbee.com, 25 June 2026
Verb
  • Many shoppers are also moving beyond the classic round brilliant diamond in favor of geometric cuts, elongated shapes and unconventional settings.
    Lauren Fisher, Footwear News, 26 June 2026
  • Snag Prime Day 2026 deals on butt-lifting, leg-elongating styles for a limited time.
    Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 26 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Lengthen.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lengthen. Accessed 29 Jun. 2026.

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